In their efforts to improve continuous engagement for TANF participants, a Rhode Island subcommittee of its Welfare Reform Information Task Force is asking if any state has devised a system of notification via computer between case manager(s) and vendors who provide services for TANF clients. Although the state already has a well developed paper notification system between itself and its vendors, it would like to automate notifications and make a 'paperless' system. The state would like to know if any states have developed a way to communicate the individuals' employability plan on the computer as a WORD document to its contractors, receiving the plan back as items are completed or not and/or outlining progress in specific activities. A best case scenario would be a family plan available in 'real time.' Such a plan would be accessible to vendors who could place notes or comments in the plan on the screen or even track attendance. This screen might be available in various forms to all involved in the plan, including the client. The state could then use this document on the screen to plot the client's progress, pay vendors timely and provide for plan changes while keeping abreast of client's activities - even daily, as needed.

In their efforts to improve continuous engagement for TANF participants, a Rhode Island subcommittee of its Welfare Reform Information Task Force is asking if any state has devised a system of notification via computer between case manager(s) and vendors who provide services for TANF clients. Although the state already has a well developed paper notification system between itself and its vendors, it would like to automate notifications and make a 'paperless' system. The state would like to know if any states have developed a way to communicate the individuals' employability plan on the computer as a WORD document to its contractors, receiving the plan back as items are completed or not and/or outlining progress in specific activities. A best case scenario would be a family plan available in 'real time.' Such a plan would be accessible to vendors who could place notes or comments in the plan on the screen or even track attendance. This screen might be available in various forms to all involved in the plan, including the client. The state could then use this document on the screen to plot the client's progress, pay vendors timely and provide for plan changes while keeping abreast of client's activities - even daily, as needed.

Rhode Island is asking if any state has devised a system of notification via computer between case manager(s) and vendors who provide services for TANF clients. Although the state already has a well developed paper notification system between itself and its vendors, it would like to automate notifications and make a 'paperless' system. The state would like to know if any states have developed a way to communicate the individuals' employability plan on the computer as a WORD document to its contractors, receiving the plan back as items are completed or not and/or outlining progress in specific activities. A best case scenario would be a family plan available in 'real time.' Such a plan would be accessible to vendors who could place notes or comments in the plan on the screen or even track attendance. This screen might be available in various forms to all involved in the plan, including the client. The state could then use this document on the screen to plot the client's progress, pay vendors timely and provide for plan changes while keeping abreast of client's activities - even daily, as needed.

Many States are currently using internet technology as an information tool to support their TANF, Child Care, Child Support and/or Child Welfare programs. Have any States' use of the Web progressed to the 'transaction' or 'commerce' phase to assist in providing direct services to their clients?

Have any State or county TANF agencies established constructive relationships with their local public housing agencies? If so, describe how this collaboration was formed and what results/changes have taken place due to this collaboration.

Are there states that have privatized their public welfare programs, in whole or part?

How do States handle the issue of criminal background checks for TANF clients? Should the State notify employers sponsoring work activities about clients who have a criminal record? Please provide State contacts if possible.

Which state or sub-state areas have TANF and child support enforcement joined forces to prioritize TANF cases nearing their TANF time limits for IV-D services, i.e. order establishment and enforcement? If so, how did they approach it, and how is it going?

A Region IX TANF program is asking if States are using video administrative hearings. (It appears that they are considering centralizing the hearing process via state video conference centers.) If you are aware of this practice in a state or local jurisdiction, can you please provide a contact name and phone number.

What strategies have states/localities used to partner with community-based organizations serving victims of domestic violence?