The Family Needs & Strengths (FANS) assessment and outcome tool for Family Peer Support is derived from the Child Needs & Strengths (CANS), developed by Dr. John Lyons.  The Family Peer Support Services assessment and outcome tool was developed in partnership with New York State Western Region Family Peer Support Services Program Directors, Dr. Lyons, and strongly encouraged and endorsed by New York State Office of Mental Health.

Family Peer Advocates engage with parent/caregivers as partners in a journey towards empowerment by identifying areas where the parent/caregiver has skills and strengths and yet continues to have some needs and understanding for support, information, and knowledge with and about services in the child serving systems.  FANS creates an opportunity for parent/caregiver to develop focused priorities and goals for themselves that will in turn support their child or youth to be successful in their home, school and community.

 ***Modified FANS Basic Training Process During NYS During COVID-19***

Families Together in NYS recognizes the challenges Family Peer Support programs and Family Peer Advocates have to access the in-person FANS Basic Training during COVID-19.  We understand the importance of keeping staff trained in FANS and serving families.  To that end, we have been working diligently to develop a web based abbreviated FANS basic that will allow FPAs to be certified to use the tool for the duration of the New York State on PAUSE Executive order.

The following is what we propose:

  • Web-based FANS Basic Training which will consist of three – 1 ½ hour sessions with homework after each session.
  • A passing grade on the test of 75% or more is required to continue on with the class.
  • Participation in a four hour in-person follow-up training to be scheduled when we’re able to meet in-person again.

If you are interested in  registering  for FANS Basic Training  Register here

 FANS Technical Assistance

Do you have questions, are you struggling, or do you want support with the test? Please join our FANS technical assistance office hours for first-time FPA certification and annual re-certification.

 
Office Hours via Zoom Call
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

For questions & general information about FANS contact:

Nancy Craig
Phone: 716-432-6238
Email: ncraig@ftnys.org

For training needs please contact your Regional Parent Advisors.