Olga Nazarenko, Spring 2016
Olga Nazarenko gained first-hand experience working in child crisis situations while conducting mobile crisis case assessments. She also learned about trauma intervention programs in Cleveland as an Extern at Frontline Service under the supervision of Jennifer Johnson and Rosemary Creeden. She took part in local focus group sessions to collect survey data for a research study designed by the Mental Health Response Advisory Committee of the ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County on police enforcement involvement in crisis situations in Cleveland.
Northeast Ohio to end homelessness, prevent suicide, resolve behavioral health crises, and overcome trauma.
“It was a truly incredible opportunity to take part in the Mann Child Policy Externship and to work directly with professionals who design, implement, and are effected by policies that directly impact children and their families in the Cleveland community.”
Lacie Parham, Spring 2016
Lacie Parham was placed with the Public Defender’s Office of the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court under the supervision of Sam Amata. During her externship, she had the opportunity to receive a firsthand look at the operations of the juvenile justice system. She researched and analyzed information for use in planning trainings to improve parent representation in Dependency, Neglect and Abuse cases. She also participated in interviews the parents to discuss possible placement of their children prior to arraignment hearings.
The Cuyahoga County Public Defender Office of the Juvenile Court provides legal services to indigent juveniles charged with violations of the criminal code.
“This experience allowed me to step outside of my textbooks and see how the legal system affects real children. At times, it was difficult for me to witness some things, but the commitment of the Public Defenders showed me that someone cares and tries to do what is best for them.”