Issue link: https://kusm-wichita.uberflip.com/i/1157351
"There isn't a program out there that works with fathers at the level LYFTE does," said Marcela Cousens, LYFTE coordinator and KU Wichita-based case manager. "This program works to help them attain a high school diploma or pursue more education. But just as importantly, we want to increase their involvement with the children." After a referral is made, the participant is contacted to discuss the program in detail, and to gain an idea about their priorities. The call also provides an opportunity to match the participant with the case manager who can best meet their needs. One is, for example, a nurse who can address medical needs, while Aguila and Cousens can serve Spanish-speaking families. The two case managers available from the county, because of licensing, can visit participants in their homes, while other case managers can meet at their oce, a library, school or other site convenient for participants. Using cards labeled with topics such as health and safety, life skills, education and career paths, the young parent prioritizes their needs and works with the case manager to create a plan to achieve them. They'll get access to an online educational badge system, which they can access with a case manager or on their own. Once completed, they can earn a badge and "LYFTE bucks" that can pay for things like gas cards, strollers, cribs, application fees and movie passes. "They are in the driver's seat," Cousens said of young parents. "We are here to guide them and help them get where they want to be. We are here to support their goals and needs." 16