Community Resource Advocates (CRA)

The Prince George’s County Department of Social Services (PGCDSS) functions as the lead agency for the Community Resource Advocate Program under the TNI@School: Prince George's Community Schools Network. This program places full time Department employees called Community Resource Advocates or CRAs in 40 schools located in the TNI neighborhoods identified by the County and School System as needing additional supports.

 The Community Resource Advocate Program is designed to ensure that families receive services and supports necessary to address social and/or emotional issues that may negatively affect a child’s ability to attend school fully available to learn.

Once a Community Resource Advocate (CRA) determines the needs of the student and family, their main role is to connect children, youth, and families to services and supports both inside and outside the Department.

Goals

  • Remove barriers to academic success
    Offer food security/income stabilization
    Connect to community resources
    Create protective environments for children
    Assist with Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Health Needs
  • Support improved academic performance
  • Develop, implement, and support school wide initiatives on specific topics/issues relevant to student success and family stability

Possible Reason for Referrals

  • School Attendance
  • Suspected Mental Health/Substance Use concerns
  • Economic support (Transportation, Food Shelter, etc.)
  • Academic Support not related to a disability (Tutors/Mentors)
  • Health Care Concerns
  • Liaison between Prince George's County Foster Care and the SChool

Who Can Refer

  • Any School Staff Member
  • Parent/Guardian
  • Community Member

How To Refer

  • Complete a TNI@School Referral Form and submit it to the schools CRA

After The Referral


  • Initial Contact Made with Parent/Guardian/Student
  • CANS Comprehensive Needs Assessment (face-to-face) is completed
  • Address needs identified by assessment, and provide case management and referral services
  • Follow-up throughout the school year to ensure student/family stability