For their MPA capstone project, a group of students will conduct research (e.g. literature review, case studies) to better understand the burden to families and individuals that need to access multiple service providers. They will locate approaches that other communities have developed to make connecting with services more streamlined by offering a single point of contact. During the Spring semester, the group will focus on engaging stakeholders, analyzing existing local conditions, and tailoring recommendations to the region. 

While communities often have numerous services for crisis intervention and to support families and individuals in need, understanding how to access those resources and overcoming administrative burden can sometimes be challenging for applicants.  This project will explore ways to better help families and individuals find essential support services available to them and will seek to minimize the complexities and burdens of applying for assistance. 

One opportunity that community leaders in the Pathfinders RC&D region would like to explore is the possibility of a single application for services that would connect families and individuals to multiple service providers, as opposed to individual applications for each individual provider.  While this model can be found in some state and local governments, non-profit service providers may not be included.  

Because this large and predominantly rural region, access to services may be particularly challenging to some residents. This project will have to navigate complex challenges, such as determining which organizations could/should be involved, understanding service areas, considering confidentially of sensitive personal information, legal hurdles that may exists, language access, and more. 

the MPA Team hosted a webinar on April 2, 2025 to share information about opportunities moving forward. The webinar video can be viewed here.