Cross System Review Panel

About the Panel

SJC Cares’ Cross System Review Panel is an opportunity for families in St. Joseph County to sit down with professionals from various youth-serving systems and community members, share their story about seeking help for a child in their care, and brainstorm potential services and supports that may be helpful in the child and family’s progress.

We prioritize youth at-risk for:

  • Suspension from local services/systems
  • Harm to self or others
  • High-end placements

Key voices at the table:

  • School systems
  • Faith communities
  • Mental health experts
  • Parent advocates
  • Juvenile Justice
  • Department of Child Services
  • Youth development leaders
  • Families and youth

Questions and Referrals

If you work with a family who may benefit from this service and would like to make a referral, complete this downloadable referral form and email it to Robin Vida.

Frequently Asked Questions

Any organization/system can refer a youth for review by the panel. Youth must meet the following criteria:

  • Involvement in at least one child- or youth-serving system
  • The usual services/planning process has not delivered the desired results
  • Additional brainstorming/resources are needed

No. This collaborative effort is available for free through SJC Cares.

The panel consists of people who have field experience and a position of influence within their organization that allows them to leverage resources or provide flexibility regarding an issue that may not appear to be available on the first attempt.

  • Because panelists are not personally involved with the case, there are increased opportunities for unbiased perspectives and new and creative solutions.
  • The family will be present whenever possible (as well as youth when indicated).
  • Panel suggestions/recommendations are purely advisory to the staff and families involved.

  1. Secure the appropriate release of information from the youth/family you are referring.
  2. Complete this downloadable referral form and email it to Robin Vida.
  3. SJC Cares’ Director will contact you to discuss details of your case, schedule a time and discuss other forms to be completed.
  4. Bring to the meeting any pertinent information for panelists to review:
    • Review Panel Presentation Form (required)
    • Evaluations, summaries of progress
    • Legal dispositions
    • School information
  5. The panel will hear from you and the family, review case information and brainstorm next steps or possible solutions which family and staff can use moving forward.