Nina's Success

Nina and her family were referred to Maryland Choices Interagency Family Preservation Services (IFPS) by Montgomery County Core Service Agency in November 2010 with several risk factors, including financial, housing, and mental health issues. When Nina was referred, she was living with her maternal aunt due to alleged abuse by her father. Nina’s mother lives out of the country. Other family members offered support for Nina, but their living and work circumstances did not allow them to provide the structure she needed. The child and family team (CFT) quickly learned about Nina’s beloved godmother, Ms. S., who was willing and able to be her guardian. Nina’s care coordinator facilitated communication and documentation among Nina’s mother, extended family members, and Montgomery County Child Welfare, so that Ms. S. could be named Nina’s guardian and Nina could move to her house.

The CFT worked closely with Nina’s large family and Ms. S. to make sure Nina received the support she needed in her new home. Ms. S. helped Nina transfer to a new high school, where her school performance improved with the help of an after school tutoring service. Nina also participated in several school clubs.

When IFPS closed in February 2011, Nina continued to participate in individual therapy and do volunteer work with the Foundation of Youth. She had been so successful in her work with the younger children, that the program asked her to continue after IFPS closed. With help from Nina’s team and her large extended family, she has plans to access needed health services and child support. But best of all, Nina has gained confidence in her ability to seek out academic and social opportunities for herself.