Creating Systems-Level Change to Better Support Expectant and Parenting Young People: A Case Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Education Policy
• Social Work

Background:

• Young parents require comprehensive support services for health, education, and family stability.
• Existing service delivery models often fail to meet the multifaceted needs of young parents.
• This case study focuses on a school district's initiative to improve service access for young parents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine how a school district facilitated systems change to enhance young parents' access to and utilization of supportive services.
• To identify strategies for improving service delivery for expectant and parenting youth.
• To assess the impact of the Pathways to Success initiative on young parent support systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a mixed-methods approach including needs assessments, quarterly reports, sustainability plans, social network analysis, and interviews.
• Conducted a systematic review of data sources to understand the pre-initiative context and resulting changes.
• Analyzed the initiative's impact on service connectivity and collaboration.

Main Results:

• The pre-initiative context was characterized by fragmented services and missed opportunities for young parents.
• A dedicated program coordinator drove systems-level change, fostering inter-organizational connections.
• Increased connectivity led to enhanced collaboration aimed at achieving sustained benefits for young parents.

Conclusions:

• Establishing sustainable, collaborative systems-level connections is crucial for overcoming service access barriers.
• Interventions that promote collaboration can significantly improve outcomes for young parents.
• Systems change strategies are effective in enhancing the delivery of support services to vulnerable youth populations.