Approaching a New Normal: Lessons Learned Transitioning Family Education Programming to a Virtual Environment

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Work
• Family Studies

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing health inequities and mental health challenges.
• Service organizations faced pressure to adapt service delivery models to meet client needs during lockdowns.
• Increased family violence and mental health concerns were prevalent during the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight lessons learned from a service organization's pivot to virtual programming during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To evaluate the impact of adapted services on client engagement and outcomes.
• To identify key factors for successful program delivery during social isolation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative review of organizational adaptation strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Comparison of client engagement and retention data pre- and post-transition to virtual programming.
• Analysis of factors contributing to program success, including programming quality, staff engagement, and participant satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Atypically high engagement and retention rates were observed in family education and violence reduction programs delivered virtually.
• Program adaptations demonstrated success in maintaining client connections and addressing critical needs.
• Key success factors included strong programming, dedicated staff engagement, and high participant satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Virtual program adaptations can increase service equity, engagement, and satisfaction.
• Maintaining connections through adapted services improves family and mental health outcomes.
• This model offers a viable approach for delivering essential services to reduce child maltreatment during social isolation and hardship.