Page 3
Reach Up Annual Report 2018 3 Executive Summary This report highlights the trends of the Reach Up Program. The caseload continues to decrease. This is a consequence of Vermont’s low unemployment rate and the tremendous efforts of our staff to support parents in finding sustainable employment.
Introduction DCF submits this report pursuant to 33 V.S.A § 1134, which requires that annually by January 31st, the Department for Children and Families (DCF) report to the Governor and the General Assembly on progress achieving the goals in 33 V.S.A. § 1002, § 1102, and § 1202 in the past year. The following sections in this report correspond to the numerical paragraphs under subsection 1134. Most data in this report, unless stated otherwise, are for the period October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017 (federal fiscal year 2017). Data reported in Sections 3 and 4 (Reach Up leavers’ participation in 3SquaresVT and Health Care Assistance) are for the period July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017 (state fiscal year 2017). Highlights and Changes in 2017
Strategic Planning with National Research Organization Mathematica In November 2017, Reach Up began working with Mathematica Policy Research to refine the mission and vision for the program, and to create a strategic plan that will foster a community of learning and best practice. “Mathematica Policy Research is a pioneering nonpartisan research organization dedicated to improving public well-being.” Using concepts of behavioral science, Mathematica is working with Reach Up to make incremental changes to the program which will steadily improve outcomes for Vermonters participating in the program. More information about Mathematica is available here: https://www.mathematica-mpr.com/about-mathematica
The 2-Generation Approach in the Reach Up Program Reach Up is working towards using a two generation (2-Gen) approach with participants and their families. A 2-Gen approach focuses on creating opportunities for, and addressing the needs of, vulnerable children and their parents together. Below is a visual depiction of the five main components of 2-Gen organizations: