TRACK 2 - Advanced Topics of Wraparound Program Success



Sessions within this focus area offer practical strategies for implementing wraparound approaches effectively at both organizational and systemic levels. These sessions expand on fundamental principles essential for successful wraparound programs and delve into advanced topics such as system transformation, data collection and evaluation, workforce development, and other key areas. The aim is to enhance outcomes for youth and families not only during the wraparound process but also in the broader context.

Join the fun at the Wraparound Facilitation Game Show

Tracy Little, Director of High Fidelity Wraparound, The National Center for Innovation and Excellence

Jarred Vermillion, Wraparound Training Manager, The National Center for Innovation and Excellence


Attention to all Wraparound facilitators! Are you prepared to put your skills to the test and enjoy a lively experience? We invite you to participate in the Wraparound Facilitation Game Show, where you will engage in competitive head-to-head challenges to determine the ultimate champion. Rest assured, expertise in Wraparound is not a prerequisite for participation. This engaging event welcomes individuals of all levels, from novices to seasoned professionals.

Approaching Fathers With Wraparound

Dr. John VanDenBerg


Dr. John VanDenBerg will deliver a presentation focusing on utilizing the Wraparound approach to offer assistance to fathers in two primary domains. Initially, the presentation will delve into an analysis of the fathering culture, considering diverse viewpoints such as those of Dr. VanDenBerg and the audience members. Subsequently, Dr. VanDenBerg will delve into practice models that respect family culture while delivering comprehensive support to fathers facing challenges.

Addressing the Needs of Youth with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: The Essential Role of ABA Interventions 

Lauren Zuccaro, Director of Evidence Based Practices and Behavioral Stabilization, National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP)


Children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often experience an increased likelihood of challenging behaviors when compared to their typically developing peers. Although the factors influencing the heightened likelihood of and varying intensity of challenging behaviors can differ significantly, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) stands out as an evidence-based approach renowned for its efficacy in addressing individuals with IDD.  By identifying the motivation for challenging behaviors and implementing proactive interventions, ABA helps children build essential life skills, cope with trauma, and reduce challenging behaviors. Additionally, providing caregivers the opportunity to undergo training in ABA principles will enable them to create structured and supportive environments. 


Recognizing the advantages of incorporating ABA interventions into care coordination and service delivery for children with IDD, participants will be introduced to the fundamental theoretical principles of ABA. This includes emphasizing the significance of understanding the motivation behind behaviors and teaching a functionally equivalent replacement behavior that will allow youth to meet their needs more adaptively. Additionally, the workshop will familiarize participants with three categories of behavioral intervention and offer motivation-specific examples within each category. In conclusion, the workshop will explore the advantages of parent training in essential ABA principles, outlining recommended training formats for effective implementation.  


What did you say? Family, Community and Dependency-All Wrapped Up

Sandra Gotwalt, Wraparound Supervisor, Family Allies Shelby Aubert, Director of Child Wellbeing, Family Allies


During this session, we will explore the fundamental principles of Wraparound from the perspective of the Dependency System. Topics will include emphasizing family voice and choice, assembling a support team, strategies for engaging essential stakeholders, crafting personalized Care Plans, distinguishing between a Dependency Case Plan/Safety Plan and a Wraparound Care Plan/Crisis Plan, and other pertinent aspects.


Family Matters: Evidence for Family Engagement and Skills Training as an Enhancement to Systems-Involved Youth to Ensure Long-Term Success 

Dr. Amy Bradshaw Hoppock, LMHC, Vice President of Behavioral Health, AMIkids, Iinc.

Dr. Jessica Mitchell, Sr. Director of Data, Research & Strategic Initiatives


Family dynamics is both a key protective factor as well as a risk factor for delinquency and overall well-being. The health, functionality, and relationships within the family determine whether it is considered a strength or a cause of harm. Youth who have been involved with the justice system or child welfare system have an increased risk of lower functioning family relationships and thus may lack the prosocial skills to improve them, often leading to future systems involvement, poor relationship skills, and difficulty in securing/retaining employment. AMIkids Family Centric Model (FCM) is a community-based intervention used in combination with individualized support services to end this cyclical relationship. This workshop will review the evaluation findings on FCM, discuss its applicability in various settings, and provide best practices on family engagement. This session will provide participants with opportunities to share strategies on family engagement and discuss the critical need for family skills training to enhance community-based programming and ensure long-term success. The AMIkids Family Centric Model (FCM) is a family-focused psychoeducational overlay service originally designed for youth and families involved with the juvenile justice system. A three-year randomized control trial study was completed by external evaluator and a quasi-experimental study to test its effectiveness (812 study youth and their families). Clinical assessments of FCM youth found a significant reduction in oppositional defiance, aggressive behavior, and rule-breaking compared to youth who did not receive FCM services. Parents and guardians reported significant improvement in family functioning in terms of healthy roles, general functioning, communication, and behavior control. Youth and their families reported strong satisfaction with the FCM services and 89% remained crime free after completion of FCM services. AMIkids has expanded this model's use with youth in the child welfare system and a standalone community-based service. Preliminary data analysis demonstrates a positive impact on youth and promising long-term effects. Sharing these results and strategies on family engagement can help strengthen or identify gaps in current services. 


Early Childhood Wraparound within the NH Children's System of Care Framework

Darryll Tenney, Administrator, NH DHHS

Dennis Calcutt, Director, Connected Familie NH


The learning objectives for this session encompass acquiring a comprehensive comprehension of New Hampshire Wraparound as an evidence-based practice, including its theory of change and practice profile. Additionally, the session aims to develop a practical understanding of how Wraparound can facilitate infant mental health and early relational well-being. Furthermore, it seeks to raise awareness regarding the pivotal role Family partners assume in Early Childhood Wraparound initiatives. The session also aims to educate providers on the significance of fidelity evaluation within evidence-based practices, specifically focusing on how fidelity is assessed and upheld in the context of Early Childhood Wraparound. Lastly, attendees will explore how graphic facilitation can enhance engagement and transparency in Wraparound processes, as well as identify the individuals who stand to benefit from Early Childhood Wraparound services.


Lutheran Service of America Family Stabilization Initiative “Together We Can” 

Renada Johnson, Lutheran Services of America

Kathryn Parker, The National Center for Innovation and Excellence


Launched in January 2021, our Family Stabilization Initiative is a three-year project where we are awarding $2.9 million in grants to organizations in our network located in four target states: Alaska, Montana, South Dakota and Washington. The work under this initiative expands services in underserved communities in the target states and activates community networks to address the disproportionate number of children of color separated from their families. In the first year of the initiative, our teams across the four states have already successfully engaged nearly 40 local partners to support the transformative goals under this project The theme of FSI is “Together We Can.” Through the implementation of a whole-family support model, FSI organizations in Alaska, Montana, South Dakota and Washington state are strengthening families and preventing child welfare involvement, leading their state’s pivot to prevention versus intervention.  


FSI is working with the National Center for Innovation and Excellence (NCFIE) to implement and sustain the evidence based C.A.R.E.S. (Coordination, Advocacy, Resources, Education and Support) Model. This model takes high-fidelity wraparound process that builds on strengths and increases protective capacities to safely divert children and families from mandated system involvement.  


This workshop will discuss the FSI project and review lessons learned when implementing in rural communities. 


Fostering Resilience: The Crucial Role of Financial Literacy in Wraparound Care Models

Zinnia Adams, Personal Finance Speaker and Consult, Perspectives


This talk will engage attendees in a deep exploration of how financial literacy can be seamlessly integrated into wraparound care models to enhance the resilience and stability of both individuals and communities. Designed to empower attendees with the knowledge and resources needed to effectively integrate financial literacy into their services, driving positive, long-lasting change in the lives of those they serve and a lasting impact in the community.


We'll focus on the transformative power of understanding and rectifying common money mistakes and reshaping spending habits toward achieving financial stability. The session will provide a comprehensive look into the foundational aspects of financial well-being. Additionally, we’ll discuss strategies to implement financial education components within their existing services, focusing on empowering individuals toward financial independence and resilience. Attendees will gain valuable insights into creating systemic change by integrating financial literacy and fostering a holistic approach to community support and development.


The Role of Family Peers in Wraparound Across Systems of Care

Sarah Miller, Assistant Executive Director, NAMI Sarasota and Manatee Counties

Blake Neathery, Family Program Supervisor, NAMI Sarasota and Manatee Counties


This session aims to demonstrate the significant contribution of parents and youths with recovery experience, referred to as peers, as integral members of the Wraparound team to improve family outcomes. Attendees will gain insights into the various roles of peer support within the System of Care, the impactful nature of lived experiences in engaging youths and families receiving services, and the operational dynamics of peers within Wraparound and their role within the team.


Assembling a Strong Family Vision

Paul Bright, Implementation Specialist, University of North Carolina-Greensboro


Does your family vision get lost in the child and family team meetings? Do other agency agendas take over and drown out the family's voice and choice? This presentation will help new wraparound practitioners assist families in creating a strong family vision that will remain as the forefront of all team meetings. This presentation will rely on fundamentals and an interactive approach to going beyond foundational knowledge about Family Vision.


Contact Us: For more information contact Osha Fordom at [email protected]