Project Harmony has a large service area, covering eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa.
When requested by law enforcement or Child Protective Services, a child interview specialist will conduct a video-taped forensic interview with the child. One of the goals of this interview is to reduce the number of times the child must tell the story of his/her abuse. Reducing the number of interviews reduces the trauma of the child.
Our medical and nursing staff specializes in evaluating children who are suspected to have been abused or neglected. Their role is to provide physical abuse and sexual abuse assessments as well as comprehensive physical exams for children placed in foster care. In addition, our staff is able to provide expert medical opinion to referral agencies regarding suspected cases of child abuse and neglect.
Mental health professionals assess each child’s needs and refer them to the appropriate therapy, support groups and other resources. Families also receive help in “understanding the system.” Regular follow-up contact with the family assures a better case outcome.
Multidisciplinary teams consisting of law enforcement, Child Protective Services, medical professionals, prosecution, school personnel, Project Harmony staff and other professionals regularly review cases to make certain children do not “fall through the cracks.” Teams work toward making changes and finding solutions to any problems in reporting and investigating child abuse, permanency, treatment and system issues.
Anyone can refer a case to the teams. Contact Jackie Simmons (402-595-1326) and include:
Training
The staffs of all of the agencies provide training to professionals and volunteers. Please call 595-1326 for more information.
