ParentLink: A model of integration and support for parents

ParentLink represents a collective of Missouri organizations and agencies s triving to simplify parents' access to research-based information, services , and problem-solving support pertaining to parenting. It is based on syste ms theory (von Bertalanffy, 1981) and, more specifically the ecology of hum an development (Bronfenbrenner; 1979). A comprehensive array of technologie s augments ParentLink professionals' outreach to parents and other citizenr y. For parents, the access can be as simple as a telephone call to ParentLi nk's WarmLine professionals. Other doorways for information and support inc lude ParentLink's Web site, other Web applications, media campaigns, and fo rthcoming neighborhood-based Parenting Corners. Information gathered from p arents and communities about parenting issues will in turn shape future pro grams and policies.