Focused Support
for Family Stability
At O’Connell Children’s Shelter, Intensive Family Services (IFS) provides targeted, in-home support to help families stay together and move beyond system involvement. Referred by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), families receive individualized guidance designed to restore safety, strengthen relationships, and build long-term stability.
How Intensive Family Services Works
Who We Serve
Families with children ages 0–18 referred by DCF who need additional support to remain safely together.
How We Help
Families work with a dedicated case manager in partnership with DCF to assess needs, achieve case plan goals and connect with community-based resources such as parenting education, behavioral health services, and stability resources.
The Impact
IFS reduces the need for out-of-home placements by helping families overcome challenges, strengthen relationships, and maintain safe, nurturing home environments.
How Intensive Family Services Works
Collaboration Builds Stability
Intensive Family Services succeeds through partnership with DCF, behavioral health providers, schools, and other social service agencies to ensure families have the guidance and tools needed for long-term success.
Intensive Family Services succeeds through partnership with DCF, behavioral health providers, schools, and other social service agencies to ensure families have the guidance and tools needed for long-term success.
Tailored Support For Every Family Member
How IFS Supports Parents & Guardians
Develops family-centered case plans with clear goals and next steps
Provides coaching using Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment
Connects caregivers to parenting classes and peer support
Refers families to housing, employment, healthcare, and other vital services
Offers consistent follow-up and progress monitoring to encourage stability
How IFS Supports Youth
- Coordinates with schools, therapists, and mentors to meet behavioral and academic needs
Reinforces routines that promote stability and healthy relationships
Keeps children with their families whenever safe and possible
Tailored Support for Every Family Member
Together, We Can
Strengthen Families
If your family has been referred to IFS or you’d like more information about the program, our team is here to help.
