While all programs are similar in taking stringent security measures and providing services tailored to family need, there are differences in the services provided and the philosophy and make-up of these community based organizations. Visitation may be monitored either by direct supervision or through one-way glass observation ports, according to family need. The program also provides group parent education, and individual counselor assistance with development of a parenting plan for families experiencing entrenched custody and access disputes. The contractor expected to provide services to benefit approximately 243 children and actually reached 254 children in the first contract period. It provides mediation, parent education, parenting plan development and court ordered visitation enforcement through supervised visitation, on an individual family basis.
Parents enter the visiting facility through different access points.
Visitation may occur in a single family area or as a family activity within a larger shared play area. In addition outdoor recreational facilities exist which allow family visits in a natural yet secure environment due to the agency's location on a large, former military base which includes an on-site security force backed up by the Plattsburgh City Police. The contractor expected to provide services to benefit approximately 50-75 children and actually reached 72 children in the first contract period. A group training session for local law guardians and attorneys on issues of access was provided. The establishment of group parent education programs in two other counties in the 6th Judicial District.