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794 Chapter 4:Working with families • Section 5: Collaborating with partners (07/2026) Collaborating with partners Introduction The intent of collaborating with partners is to ensure families are able to access the most holistic and supportive services as they work toward their short- and long-term goals. When families are being served by other agencies, it is important to discuss those services and build a plan that reflects those efforts. When establishing service relationships with partners, it is important to focus on the individual’s goals and desired outcomes. When collaborating with families, it is important to identify the recourse the participants bring to the process, who they are already working with, and what additional resources may be helpful. If appropriate, SSP may help participants contact and obtain services from other benefit programs and resources. Any time other agencies may be involved in serving the family, it is important to obtain the appropriate releases. Referring to partners Once a case plan has been developed and the participant has identified their own goals and needs, SSP can offer additional resources through contracted entities or community partners. The referral to partners should only happen after the participant has granted permission; participants have the right to change their mind at any time. Staff may advocate with partners on behalf of the participant, refer to previously developed community partner relationships or assist the participant in finding a specific partner that meets their needs. Oregon Administrative Rule(s) 461-105-0060 — Release of Information to the Client 461-105-0070 — Client Authorization for Release of Client Information to Third Party 461-105-0100 — Release of Client Information to Law Enforcement Officers 461-105-0120 — Release of Information on Child Support and Paternity Cases 461-105-0130 — Disclosure of Client Information Best practices • Have regular contact scheduled for all participants. • Narrate plan outcomes and modifications in the case record. • Continue to ask open-ended questions, summarizing what you hear from the participant. • Remind the participant that they know what is best for themselves and their family and build a plan to reflect their own goals. • Expect the participant to share more about themselves as trust increases. • Remember not all paths to self-sufficiency will be linear. Instead, focus on the participant’s success, and help them continually focus on their short- and long-term goals.