Locally Defined and Driven

Locally Defined and Driven

The most successful collaborative programs of schools and human services are locally defined and arise from the community's distinct needs, interests, and resources (Ascher, 1990). The National Parent-Teacher Association (1996) states:

"The needs of children, youth, and families can vary dramatically from community to community, and the definition of community itself should not be bound by geography or politics. Similarly, communities have different strengths and resources for meeting their needs. Services and support programs, therefore, serve clients best when they are locally planned, operated, and evaluated with broad public and private community involvement." "All too often, education, health, and social services fall short of their goals because they are designed for bureaucratic needs rather than family needs. Together, families and providers must be able to construct services that are welcomed by families, support their independence, and strengthen their community ties."