Overview

The purpose of the Tools that Answer the Needs of Frontline TANF Workers project is to improve outcomes for TANF recipients with developmental disabilities and/or multiple barriers to self-sufficiency by enhancing the professional knowledge and effectiveness of frontline TANF staff. This objective will be accomplished through the development of appropriate research-based in-service training modules and pre-service educational curricula for current and future frontline workers in TANF agencies at State and local levels.

The major research questions addressed include: (1) What are the unique issues and problems that frontline workers are likely to encounter in dealing with the target population? (2) What professional skills, knowledge, and the level of expertise are needed by these staff to be effective in their job? (3) What are the most appropriate research-based in-service training module and educational curricula to achieve this objective?

Project activities includes: reviewing existing research, resources and practices; identifying and establishing a network of stakeholders from four States to assist the researchers in information gathering, validating and field testing activities; identifying key issues and the needs of the frontline workers; developing and pilot testing research-based in-service training module and pre-service educational curriculum; and obtaining a final consensus from the stakeholders.

The project period is 9/30/02-9/29/05 and the point of contact is Hossein Faris. Ask a Question.