About the Panel
SJC Cares’ Cross System Review Panel is an opportunity for families in St. Joseph County to sit down with professionals from various youth-serving systems and community members, share their story about seeking help for a child in their care, and brainstorm potential services and supports that may be helpful in the child and family’s progress.
We prioritize youth at-risk for:
Suspension from local services/systems
Harm to self or others
High-end placements
Key voices at the table:
School systems
Faith communities
Mental health experts
Parent advocates
Juvenile Justice
Department of Child Services
Youth development leaders
Families and youth
Questions & Referrals
If you work with a family who may benefit from this service, you can refer them to the panel by clicking here.
For more information, email coordinator@sjccares.org
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can participate?
Any organization/system can refer a youth for review by the panel. Youth must meet the following criteria:
Involvement in at least one child- or youth-serving system
The usual services/planning process has not delivered the desired results
Additional brainstorming/resources are needed
Is there a cost?
No. This collaborative effort is available for free through SJC Cares.
How is this different from a provider meeting?
The panel consists of people who have field experience and a position of influence within their organization that allows them to leverage resources or provide flexibility regarding an issue that may not appear to be available on the first attempt.
Because panelists are not personally involved with the case, there are increased opportunities for unbiased perspectives and new and creative solutions.
The family will be present whenever possible (as well as the youth when indicated).
Panel suggestions/recommendations are purely advisory to the staff and families involved.
What is the panel review process?
Secure the appropriate release of information from the youth/family you are referring.
Complete the referral form at sjccares.org/cross-system-review-panel
SJC Cares' coordinator will contact you to discuss details of your case, schedule a time and discuss other forms to be completed.
Bring to the meeting any pertinent information for panelists to review:
Review Panel Presentation Form (required)
Evaluations, summaries of progress
Legal dispositions
School information
The panel will hear from you and the family, review case information and brainstorm next steps or possible solutions which family and staff can use moving forward.