Jennifer Kirchen is an Adult Protective Services (APS) Senior Research Associate/Subject Matter Expert at WRMA, Inc., a TriMetrix Company. WRMA is the service provider for APS TARC, a focal point for ACL's overall approach to leading the development of comprehensive APS systems. As a member of the team, she provides technical assistance support to state APS programs and federal grant recipients. Jennifer is a knowledgeable program director with over 20 years of APS experience at the county, state, and national levels. She began her career as an APS investigator, which gave her tremendous insight into the needs of APS field investigators. She has a unique perspective, having directed APS programs in both Minnesota and Arizona. Her national experience comes by way of the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) as a member, previous Western Regional Representative as well as a previous contractor.
Why is APS an Important Partner for E-MDTs?
There are many aspects to the social service system that fill gaps for vulnerable individuals. APS provides investigations when an adult maltreatment report is made. APS works with community partners such as law enforcement, prosecutors and advocates with the goal of stopping the abuse, neglect/self-neglect or exploitation, referring to services to address needs, reducing the likelihood of future maltreatment and holding perpetrators accountable when appropriate.
Three Foundational Aspects of Working With APS
- APS must balance the risk to individuals (safety) with their right to self- determination.
- Individuals with capacity have the right to refuse services.
- APS doesn’t have all the tools in its toolbox to process cases alone. Partnershipsare the key to successful outcomes.
A Helpful Resource
The “Understanding and Working with Adult Protective Services (APS)” brief highlights Administration for Community Living APS federal guidelines as well as explains investigative goals, limitations and strategies.
A Practical Next Step
Building these crucial collaborations is rooted in open communication. Reach out to APS and discuss the benefits of incorporating your discipline into their teams and what value it would have. Having an open dialogue and sharing resources will be helpful to all involved to build a collaborative effort to protect vulnerable individuals.
