This course includes the following video:

Techniques to Improve Navigation Across Basic Needs Resource Systems and Empower Service

Service workers must navigate provider systems that are complex, subject to policy and funding influences, and often insufficient, which can limit access to resources. Establishing communities of practice facilitates the development of innovative networking and technologically driven tools that can promote positive client outcomes. This workshop will illustrate the use of resource and referral tools, such as listservs, decision trees, and online networking forums, which help service providers meet client needs.

Course Outcomes
As a result of this course, you will be able to:
Understand how integrating the concepts of Collective Impact and Communities of Practice alleviates barriers to service provision.
Be able to identify basic needs, resources, and referral tools.
Demonstrate how enriched networking can assist professionals through supportive relationships and can strengthen work environments.

What will participants walk away knowing?
Participants will walk away with awareness of tools to support a generalist understanding of social systems and resources.

Target Population for Audience
Anyone interested in having a basic understanding of how to more effectively support community members with accessing, experiencing, and applying for support for resources from government and non-profit agencies.

Presenter Info
Shaun Taft is a Macro-Licensed Social Worker whose primary focus is on uncovering barriers to resource access and creating sensible solutions to connect frontline service providers. She received her MSA with a concentration in Business Management from Central Michigan University. She earned her MSW with a focus on Community and Social Systems from the University of Michigan. She has worked in the non-profit sector for almost 20 years, managing programs across diverse domains. She has a background in resource navigation, improving system delivery, cross-sector collaboration, community organizing, and advocacy. She developed Wayne County Resource Champions, one of the first county-wide networking groups for basic needs resources in Wayne County. Also, she expanded the use of a web-based clearinghouse for flyers and events across seven counties in Michigan. She developed the idea of creating a systems navigation manual on a statewide basis. She gathered content from experts, including social workers, across different life domains to craft "Finding Your Way: A Roadmap to Social Systems and Resources." She serves on the state-wide Coalition to Keep Michigan Warm and is the President of the board of the Wayne-Westland Figure Skating Club. She currently resides in Westland, Michigan, and is an avid gardener and figure skater.