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1995 HSAC Forum Recommendations <br />The 1995 HSAC Forum focused on "Human Services in Transition: New Opportunities" <br />Discussion groups were asked to list and prioritize opportunities for human services agencies in <br />the time of change and uncertainty. The following information highlights the ideas generated by <br />forum participants, as well as reflections of the HSAC members. <br />The main concept of viewing human services workers as service brokers and <br />consultants versus service providers was a consistent theme. In order to effectively <br />make this shift, many participants expressed a desire to see the client as more of a <br />partner in determining the needed services, as well as, identifying the method for <br />obtaining such services. This shift will require planning by each agency and training for <br />employees. <br />Responsible Parties: Agencies <br />Peer support and peer mentoring mechanisms for clients was strongly endorsed. In <br />order to incorporate some of these changes, human services agencies will have to <br />examine their current mode of operations, and take a new approach to helping those who <br />need services. Staff will require training if they are to assume new roles effectively. <br />Responsible Parties: Agencies <br />An important message from many participants was that the work done at the forum <br />should be continued throughout the year. The HSAC recommends the creation of a <br />mechanism for continued communications among area agencies. This may be <br />achieved through providing additional opportunities for human services personnel to <br />work together; the dissemination of a newsletter; or some other means. <br />Responsible Parties: HSAC, County Government <br />The types of change that were expressed by the participants will have to take place at the <br />individual agency level. Each agency will be requested to reexamine its mission and the <br />use of its personnel. <br />Responsible Parties: Agencies <br />Training resources must be identified for program evaluation; producing outcome <br />measures; shifting from service providers to service brokers; defining priorities in a time <br />of increased demands for assistance; and developing peer support and peer mentoring <br />programs for clients, etc. <br />Responsible Parties: Agencies, University, County Government <br />