What is the cost for the training?
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 Commission on Crime and Delinquency. Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance covers all material and trainer related expenses, including travel. 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.

What equipment is required for the training?
The sponsoring organization will be responsible for the following basic equipment for the training; A TV/VCR, an easel for flip charts with a blank easel pad, an overhead projector and screen (or wall), tables and chairs for participants, an additional table for display items and for the trainer's materials. The room should be appropriate for the size of the audience.

Will continuing education credit be available for participants?
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 is, however, awarded by the participant's school district pursuant their district policy. Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance is not an Act 48 provider.

Early Education professionals can receive Pathways/DPW credit when the training is provided by a Pathways certified trainer. Pathways forms will be provided for all interested staff. However, the sponsor or the individual is responsible for submitting the forms to Pathways for application of credit.

Licensed Social Workers can receive credit hours of continuing education through co-sponsorship of the University of Pittsburgh, School of Social Work and the PA Child Welfare Training Program. These credit hours satisfy requirements for LSW renewal. The sponsor of the training must indicated their desire for LSW credit at least two months in advance of the training session for credit to be available.

Is there a minimum number of participants required for this training?
Yes. A minimum of 15 participants is required for most training sessions, with the ideal group size being between 20 and 35 participants. Other restrictions can apply; contact Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance for more information.

Can training be presented in an evening or on a weekend?
Yes. While most workshops are provided as in-service training during regular working hours, it is often possible for a 3-hour workshop to be presented in an evening and a 3 or 6 hour training session to be offered on a weekend.

Can the training time be reduced from 3-hours?
No. All Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance training curriculums 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 acceptable experience for participants. Organizations who would like a quick overview of reporting requirements for their staff are encouraged to contact their local Children and Youth Services agency.

How do I schedule training for my staff?
All that is generally needed to schedule a training session is a site, a date, and an audience. Training is provided by independent experts in the field of child welfare under contract with Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance. As long as one of our training experts has the date you choose available, a training presentation can be scheduled. You choose the date. It is often helpful is a couple date options can be offered. Contact Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance at 1-800-448-4906 to schedule a session for your staff.