Opinion ID: 2167237
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Rich Maier

Text: Rich Maier, a DCFS child welfare specialist, testified that DCFS received another hot line call during November 1994, indicating that S.S. and C.N. had been sexually abused. Maier drafted the initial client service plan that month, which was directed to Diane and Marin. Under the plan, Diane was to obtain a substance abuse evaluation and a psychological evaluation, participate in counseling and parenting classes, and obtain and maintain appropriate housing. The permanency goal of the initial service plan was return home. In early February 1995, Maier rated Diane's progress toward this goal satisfactory. Maier testified that Diane had started counseling with Amy Unterborn at St. Charles Family Center; she had obtained a substance abuse evaluation; and she was either attending or about to begin parenting classes at the Four C's (Community Coordinated Child Care). Although the substance abuse evaluation revealed no alcohol or substance abuse by Diane, based on Diane's family history and Diane's own drinking pattern, the evaluator recommended alcohol education. Maier also drafted the February 1995 service plan. By this time, Mark and Diane had advised Maier that Mark may be C.N.'s father. The February 1995 service plan, however, was directed only to Diane and Marin because Mark's paternity was not yet established. Under the plan, Diane was required to participate in counseling to examine her role in the removal of her children and to receive the recommended alcohol education. She was also required to participate in parenting classes and set up a stable housing situation. On his own accord, Mark accompanied Diane to all six parenting classes at the Four C's, successfully completing the program.