Building stronger families together: A collaboration with Kasohkowew Child Wellness Society
Ranch Ehrlo’s family treatment programs and Kosohkowew Child Wellness Society have partnered to share a common mission to support and empower families in need.
In August 2024, key members of the Kosohkowew Child Wellness Society – Wayne Dfna, Leanne Sheriff, and Shelly Eckenswiller – visited the family treatment programs to learn more about the comprehensive services offered and to explore potential collaboration. At the time, Kasohkowew was developing an exciting new program aimed at supporting family healing and reunification. Their initiative would include four family treatment-based homes and 10 sibling reunification homes, providing a nurturing environment where children and families could rebuild their connections.
“This visit was a valuable opportunity for the Kasohkowew team to explore the range and impact of our programs for families,” explained Patti Petrucka, FTP director. “It also marked a significant step forward in strengthening the partnership between our organizations.”
Insight into family programs
Family treatment program managers Sharon Miller and Deena Hall provided an in-depth overview of Ranch Ehrlo’s family programs, showcasing how the services work and the positive outcomes families can achieve with support.
Ranch Ehrlo’s family programs are focused on helping families overcome challenges and create healthier, more stable home environments. Through family reunification efforts, programs offer a variety of services to support both children and parents as they heal, grow, and thrive.
The insights shared by the managers with Kasohkowew Child Wellness Society were invaluable in demonstrating how FTP services could complement the new program and its goals.
Exploring future collaboration
Both teams recognized the potential for synergy in supporting families, and discussions about future partnership opportunities were productive. Kasohkowew expressed interest in furthering the relationship by attending the FTPs’ two-day management training in February 2025.
The most recent site visit laid the groundwork for a deeper collaboration. The initial meeting led to a signed agreement for services, solidifying the partnership. As part of this agreement, Patti led a two-day training session for supervisors and managers to enhance leadership and supervisory skills. The training focused on essential areas for effective management within intensive in-home family treatment programs.
“This commitment to attending the training is a key step in building a long-lasting and impactful partnership,” said Patti. “By working together, our organizations aim to strengthen the services available to families, helping them navigate their challenges and build brighter futures.”
The specialized training provided the Kasohkowew team with the tools and strategies needed to support their teams effectively. This ensures that their new program will meet the needs of families and help them succeed. The signed agreement and training session mark the beginning of an ongoing partnership between the two organizations.
“Together, we are dedicated to fostering safe, supportive environments where families can thrive,” said Patti. “Through this collaboration, we aim to create stronger, healthier communities, equipping families with the tools necessary to heal, grow, and build better futures.”
Ranch Ehrlo’s family programs are made up of three distinct programs that provide services and support to families so they can live together in a healthy and safe home environment. Learn more about the family programs, here.