A primary component to the wellness of a young person is their connection to family members. Often, youth in child-serving systems are separated from their families. They also may not know about their extended family. Family Search and Engagement (FSE) is a unique service that helps individuals:
- Find family members who may not be in contact,
- Find family members who may be completely unknown to the youth,
- Build connections with these family members, and
- Engage the family members as long-term natural supports.
Catholic Community Services has provided FSE services for OHA since 2015.
How it works
Any individual or their guardian can contact Catholic Community Services for FSE services.
FSE searches for members throughout the country in many ways. Searches may include extensive family mapping, genealogy services and DNA testing.
After identifying relatives, FSE staff uses flexible spending funds to help youth to identify activities to enhance connection.
Engaging family members has been shown to improve the total wellness of youths. Identified family members often become long-term natural supports; some even become placement options.
Referrals and Questions
Tawny Townsend Family Search and Engagement Supervisor
Phone: 503-348-8078