Impact

After its first year of operation, JUNTOS contracted with the Leap and Associates research team to conduct a thorough evaluation of its programs and has continued to maintain this investment in subsequent years. The evaluations use both qualitative and quantitative data to measure the impact of JUNTOS programs. In all that it has accomplished in its short three years, JUNTOS has established proof of concept, specifically that a school-based wellness model is able to serve as a foundational platform able to combat the many complex barriers to service provisions that members of the Lennox community have experienced for generations. District employees witness first hand scores of unsuccessful outside referral efforts, as Lennox residents share the various barriers that render these well-intended referrals unfulfilled. From transportation limitations, to the fear that undocumented status brings to a caretaker unwilling to risk residency status, to the stigma often associated with mental health services, JUNTOS has been able to capitalize on the inherent trust that resides within the school walls and the trust that families instill in the school staff. Thus, the JUNTOS team continues to find new avenues for engaging the community and is watching with pride as elements of the vision and mission statements are taking shape.

Evaluations show that parents who participate in the parenting classes conceptualized the experience as one that improves their lives and the lives of their families, and report having shared class resources with family members and friends. Individuals receiving individual and family therapy services have reflected on their experiences in therapy as integral to the healing process. Through its Family Services, JUNTOS is strengthening families and helping parents/caregivers create supportive, nurturing and safe environments in the home to help youth thrive.