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BEM 228 15 of 22 FAMILY AUTOMATED SCREENING TOOL AND FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY PLAN BPB 2025-008 4-1-2025
BRIDGES ELIGIBILITY MANUAL STATE OF MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
DRAWING ACTIVITIES FROM YOUR CLIENT Employment service providers take the lead in planning activities when the participant is referred for employment services. MDHHS must plan and monitor other activities appropriate to the needs, strengths and circumstances of a family when the participant is referred to the employment service provider for a reduced number of hours due to a partial deferral, accommodation for disabilities or special needs and/or limitations. MDHHS takes the lead in planning activities when the participant is not referred to an employment service provider. Explore situations from the participant’s past to find success. Ask, “Was there ever a time in the past when you were in a similar situa- tion? Do you know of anyone who has been in a similar situation? How was that handled?” Get details. Allow the participant time to think. Compliment the participant as s/he thinks of solutions. Write down all options the participant comes up with, then discuss the possible consequences after a few options have been listed. Do not offer solutions. Let the participant suggest his/her own ideas. Help the participant identify the activities s/he needs to take, the date to start the activities, and the expected result. Ask the partici- pant, “What is the very first small step? Before that? Before that? What else?” until the participant identifies specific activities s/he can begin now. Ask, “How will you do that?” “How will you know when you achieve it?” and “What would you like to see happen as a result?” Consider the participant’s circumstances and local resources in helping them choose the best activity. Keep these suggestions in mind when assisting the participant to identify options they can choose to meet goals. Avoid using phrases such as “you should,” “why don’t you?” or “you must.” Ineligible grantees are more likely to engage in activities that pro- mote family strengthening such as volunteering at their childrens’ school or visiting the library on a regular basis.