Family Navigation brings together best practices in case management and peer-to-peer supports to make it easier for families to navigate complex systems, advocate for themselves and their families, and get equitable access to resources. Family navigators guide caretakers seeking support through systems including social services, education, and health care.
Family navigators are usually parents or caregivers themselves with some first-hand experience with one or more of the systems they are helping others navigate – for example, they may have children in the same school district, or they or their family members may have been clients of the behavioral health system. This lived experience gives family navigators insight into the relevant systems and services, and also a deep passion and empathy for the families they serve.
We provide Family Navigation through both dedicated staff and contracted partner organizations. Our small team of school-linked Community Health Workers partner with school districts, other public agencies, and community-based organizations in order to serve Alameda County parents and caregivers. Services are designed to address the social determinants of health and include:
- Health Education for parents and caregivers
- Health Care Coordination
- Family Resource Navigation