Family Support Reference Guide Development for the Exceptional Family Member Program

Military Community and Family Policy (MC&FP), OUSD (P&R)

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Challenge

Due to a growing demand for consistency and continuity of programs and services from installation to installation and across Services, and in response to new federal legislative requirements for specific supports and program offerings, the Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Community Support for Military Families with Special Needs recognized the need for a management guide for the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP), describing day-to-day operations and providing resources and information for EFMP staff with varied skill backgrounds.

Solution

The Bowen Group tapped into their broad military quality of life program management background and their EFMP subject matter expertise to create a management guide addressing a broad range of issues of relevance to EFMP installation-level personnel.

With guidance from the Office of Community Support for Military Families with Special Needs and a Joint Service Working Group, The Bowen Group researched and developed content on systems navigation and tiers of service delivery, the role of the EFMP manager, program management and operations, daily office operations, service delivery/working with clients, and partnering with other programs and agencies both on and off of military installations to provide the most comprehensive network of support and services possible for families with special needs members. Content also focused on other issues of particular relevance to EFMP staff including special education, medical benefits and resources, public benefits, and DoD-specific resources for families with special needs.

Developing this comprehensive guide involved the coordination of writers, editors, and designers, with information being funneled through one key project manager, who kept the client informed and the project moving towards the end goal.

Result

The Bowen Group ensures consistent EFMP development and service delivery across the Services. This comprehensive guide helps ensure that families receive the same high-quality EFMP services as they move from installation to installation throughout their military careers. The guide provides a clear roadmap for service providers, walking them through their responsibilities as EFMP staff and introducing them to a wealth of resources both on and off of military installations.

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Management Consulting Case Studies:

• Consulting and Operational Support, MyCAA
• Family Support Reference Guide, EFMP
• Strategic Planning, RAP