Q. What is the cost for the training?

A. There is no direct cost for the provision of any of the on-site training programs. The training is sponsored by a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare (DPW). Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance (PFSA) will cover all material and trainer related expenses. The only potential expense to the sponsoring organization would be for costs associated with securing an appropriate site and equipment for the training, provision of any refreshments or lunch (optional), and costs associated with personnel’s time.  There is, however, a $250 fully refundable fee for scheduling a training date. 

Q. What equipment is required for the training?

A. The sponsoring organization will be responsible for the following basic equipment for the training: A TV/VCR or TV/DVD, a flipchart with a blank easel pad, an overhead projector or LCD projector set-up (for PowerPoint), a screen or blank wall for projecting images, tables and chairs for participants, and additional tables for display items and for the trainer’s materials. The room should be appropriate for the size of the audience to ensure the comfort of the participants.

Q. Will continuing education credit be available for participants?

A. Most education professionals receive Act 48 credit when the training is provided for school personnel at their school or in an Intermediate Unit. Act 48 credit will be awarded by the participant’s school district pursuant their district policy. Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance is not an Act 48 provider, although all PFSA programs meet Act 48 standards.

Early education professionals may receive PA Keystone Stars/DPW credit. Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance is a PQAS certified organization (PQAS number: SDO-00900).

Licensed social workers (LSW) may receive credit hours of continuing education through co-sponsorship with the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work and the PA Child Welfare Training Program. These credit hours satisfy requirements for licensure renewal. The sponsor of the training must indicate their desire for social work continuing education credits in advance of the training session so the appropriate forms may be obtained. 

Q. Is there a minimum number of participants required for training?

A. Yes. A minimum of 15 participants is required for each training session, with the ideal group size being between 20 and 35 participants. In addition, a maximum of 50 participants will be allowed per session. If your organization has fewer than 15 or more than 50 participants, contact PFSA to ask about available options. 

Q. Can training be presented in an evening or on a weekend?

A. Yes. Most workshops are provided as in-service training during regular working hours; however, PFSA will provide a three-hour workshop in the evening and a three- or six-hour training session on a weekend.

Q. Can the training time be reduced from three hours?

A. No. All Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance training curricula have been developed and approved for the designated time. A reduction in the time results in a reduction of the quality and content of the training and a less than valuable experience for participants. Organizations who would like a quick overview of reporting requirements for their staff are encouraged to contact their local county Children and Youth Services agency. 

Q. How do I schedule training for my staff?