The document emphasizes the importance of community engagement and policy connection to strengthen family resilience, particularly for families affected by incarceration. It outlines strategies for effective program design through strong interagency relationships, community input, and the involvement of parents as educators. The document advocates for understanding unique community needs and ensuring accountability in a way that supports local organizations.

1. A PASSION FOR
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The macro-level of wrangling policies into social service
program design and delivery at the micro-level.

2. STRENGTHENING FAMILY RESILIENCE IN
THE FACE OF ADVERSITY
Families struggle and children suffer when a parent is
behind bars.
How can policy connect with a family’s lived reality?
 Strong interagency relationships
 Cross-training for staff
 Community voices
 Family input

3. WHO SAID NUTRITION EDUCATION CAN’T BE FUN?
Developed and tested by parents, kids
and preschool staff
 Family friendly
 Strengths-based
 Hands-on
 Change over time
 Community support
 Autonomy and competence
 Fun and playful

4. THE BIG PICTURE
Connecting the federal USDA to local
community interests and needs:
 parents as first teachers
 parents supporting parents
 families learning together
 families as community resources

5. LOOKING AHEAD FOR SEVEN
GENERATIONS
 Community needs and wants
 Each Tribe is unique
 One size does not fit all
 Sustainability
 Tribal values and practices

6. CONSIDER THIS . . .
Who in the community?
Where in the community?
What does the community have?
What do they want?
What is their vision and timeline?
How do they want to get there?

7. ACCOUNTABILITY DOES NOT NEED TO BE PROHIBITIVE
TO LOCAL COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS . . .
 Simple
 Streamlined
 Accessible
 Approachable
 Clear

8. SOCIAL CONCERNS DRIVE
POLICIES, PROGRAMS AND
IMPACT SERVICES TO FAMILIES
Serving those who serve . . . .
 Child care licensors
 Child care providers
 Center-based
 Family home
 Nannies
 Home visitors
 Community correction officers

9. GATHERING VOICES THAT CARE
For the legislative ear.

10. Links to complete work samples can be found here:
https://shannonblood.wordpress.com/about/professional-work-samples/