To fulfill these goals, CARES has the following programs:

	ABC's & 123's Program Behavior and Guidance Course		Yes, You Can Do It Program Providing Care to Children with Developmental Challenges Training Program
	Mentoring Mentor Program		Equipment Grants Start-Up and Equipment Grants
	CARES Request Line Request Line for Parents & Providers		Early Intervention Opportunities (EIO)           Meeting the comprehensive needs           of families

They say it takes a village to raise a child...

Collaborators City of Lakewood, Department of Community Resources Colorado Child Care Association Colorado Office of Resource and Referral Agencies Family Resources & Child Care Education

Jefferson Center for Mental Health Jefferson County Child Care Association Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment Jefferson County Schools Preschool Intervention Services Jefferson County Department of Human Services Mountain Resource Center

There are several components aimed at achieving the program goals.

Goal 1: We are working to have existing family child care providers and centers consider expanding their hours of operation. Additional recruitment efforts target legally exempt providers, those seeking licensure and recipients of public assistance. The recruitment plan includes incentives such as scholarships for Basics and First Aid/CPR classes and mini grants to assist with start up or expansion.

Goal 2: Parents and early childhood professionals contact the CARES Request line to discuss specific concerns about meeting the child care needs of children wit special needs. An initial assessment of concerns is made by the CARES coordinator who works with the family and provider to develop an appropriate strategy. Strategies may include:

1. Phone consultation and discussion of resources

2. Enhanced child care search done by the CARES Recruitment Specialist.

3. Initial Resource visit to assist in problem solving, accessing additional supports and other resources.

4. On site early intervention services if needed. Families will be supported in assessing other needs and appropriate referrals to additional community resources provided. Resources may include home visitation, parenting classes, respite care and other supportive services.

5. Visits by mentors who offer hands-on support, modeling and helping find resources.

6. Early childhood professionals have the options of completing comprehensive training programs that currently include the nine-hour behavior and guidance course, "ABC & 123’s" and the six hour Yes You Can. Recently revised, the course is designed to meet the needs of infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities.

7. Mini grants to purchase equipment necessary to provide child care for children with special needs. Grants are given for up to $500 for a home and up to $1,000 for a center. Applications are made the CARES Coordinator who forwards recommendations for funding to Jefferson County Department of Human Services.

   Application & Guidelines

   For more information contact the CARES Coordinator Pat Bolton at 303-914-6527.

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