loading…
loading…
loading…
8
what numerical goals are established for reducing the illegitimacy ratio of the State (Section 402(A)(1)(A)(v) of the Social Security Act). Kansas’s emphasis is on preventing and reducing the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies, as well as encouraging the formation and maintenance of two-parent families, particularly among teens and young adults who are less likely to be married or prepared to care for a child. Kansas is directing TANF funds, under TANF purposes 3 and 4, to programs such as Jobs for America’s Graduates – Kansas and the Kansas Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. Understanding individuals with a high school diploma are less likely to have children out-of-wedlock, these programs focus on keeping high-risk children in school by providing academic assistance, mentorships, and real-life skill building opportunities. Goals for these programs include 90% high school graduation rates, 80% positive outcomes (employment, enlistment in military or enrolled in higher education) after graduation, increase in school attendance and academic scores, reduction in school suspensions, increased knowledge of the benefits of sexual abstinence, and reduction in contact with the juvenile justice system. Sparkwheel (formerly known as Communities in Schools of Mid-America (CIS)) partners with Kansas school districts that form the foundation for the Igniting Student and Family Success which provides a two-generational framework that address improved student outcomes by tweaking its services based on existing resources and identified gaps. Sparkwheel addresses desired outcomes referenced in the “ChildTrends” data to move the whole family forward by helping to end intergenerational poverty. Students and families are connected to appropriate and valuable community resources enabling families to progress toward a more stabilized living environment. This program is TANF funded and meets TANF purposes 1 and 2. TANF funded services are limited to families whose income is less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Jobs for America’s Graduates – Kansas (JAG-K) helps students at risk of failing in school by providing an avenue for students to achieve academically and by assisting students in ultimately earning recognized credentials that will make it possible for them to exit school and enter post- secondary education and/or the workforce. Services provided meet TANF purpose 3 by providing intervention and improved life prospects for students who show evidence of failing, dropping out or engaging in negative behaviors that can lead to dependency, out-of-wedlock pregnancies, imprisonment, or other undesirable outcomes. Eligible participants are at risk for perpetuating a cycle of poverty due to experiencing academic, personal, environmental, or economic barriers. Through the JAG-K Transition Services program supports are provided to foster care youth within the schools to increase the likelihood these students successfully complete high school and are prepared to continue their education or enter the workforce. This program is TANF funded and meets TANF purpose 3.
Kansas Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs (BGCA) provides evidence-based and informed prevention programming in three primary categories: BGCA youth development, BGCA targeted programs, and family engagement. The foremost strategy of these is the Boys & Girls Club evidence-informed youth development approach, which provides: • Club environments that are safe, structured, fun, and inclusive • Supportive relationships with caring adults and positive peers • Activities that build on youth strengths and foster a sense of belonging and competence A second strategy is intentionally engaging youth in targeted programs that are sequenced learning experiences with specific objectives for building skills and knowledge, designed to help youth achieve positive outcomes in one or more of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Formula for Impact outcome areas: Academic success, Health & Wellness, and Good Character & Citizenship. Youth