What does CARE (Children and Residential Experiences) look like from the perspective of the George Junior Republic in PA Transportation Department?

At first glance, the phrase meeting people where they are can sound simple—such as telling someone, “We’ll meet you in front of the courthouse.” But in practice, it means much more.

The six CARE principles—developmentally focused, family-involved, relationship-based, competence-centered, trauma-informed, and ecologically oriented—can be understood through this lens. Meeting people where they are involves considering their developmental stage, family connections, relationships, strengths, life experiences (including trauma), and the environments that shape them. This mindset applies not only to our youth, but also to families, referring agencies, staff, coworkers, and even within our own homes.

One of the first things I share with new transportation team members/drivers is this: For many of the youth we serve, you are the very first George Junior Republic staff member they will meet. That moment in time matters. Drivers often greet new admissions who may be anxious or uncertain. A simple conversation, answering questions, or offering reassurance can help ease fears and lay the foundation for a positive experience.

CARE shows up in our daily work in countless ways. Drivers bring forward concerns they notice, such as whether a youth has a coat. They provide snacks, water, and meals when needed. They accommodate youth requests for specific drivers whenever possible. They track down items left in vans. They warmly greet families and agency representatives during home passes or court trips, answering questions—or finding the answers if they don’t know them.

When onboarding new drivers, I stress three key points:

• You are the first face of George Junior Republic many youth encounter. Your role matters deeply.
• We must meet people where they are—emotionally, developmentally, and situationally. A youth may be having a bad day, may feel triggered, or may be acting out for reasons we don’t yet see/know.
• If you can make a difference in even one child’s life, you have positively impacted not just that individual, but the world around them.

The Transportation Team at George Junior Republic in PA embodies CARE in action every day. For our team, meeting people where they are isn’t just a philosophy—it’s second nature.