Case Examples

Anthony

Last year, ACS evaluated Anthony, who was before the Juvenile Court on a first-time delinquency charge for allegedly assaulting a classmate. Quiet and stocky, 13-year-old Anthony seemed immature and at a loss to explain himself. When the Judge referred him to ACS for evaluation and follow-up services, it was immediately clear that Anthony’s behavior problems indicated much larger issues in the family.

Anthony’s family had emigrated from a war-torn country. His father, who had been abusive, had recently abandoned the family. Anthony's mother was seeking political asylum, a process delayed in the prolonged aftermath of the World Trade Center disaster. Anthony and his mother needed help getting food the first day they were seen. Fortunately, we were able to link them with a nearby food pantry and help them secure food stamps for the future. They also needed help with immigration issues, health insurance, and special education services for Anthony. The family, though disorganized, was bright and motivated, and Anthony’s school was invested in him as well.

On its own, the family could not access the available services. Without additional help, Anthony would likely get into further difficulties and become more deeply involved in the court system. ACS was able to pinpoint Anthony’s particular needs and the more general needs of the family. Afterward, ACS advocated for Anthony at court, followed up with his school and family, and helped him move his life forward.

One year later, the ACS clinician who evaluated the family learned of Anthony's good news when she called the school. His guidance counselor said: 

Anthony passed 8th grade with high honors. The school year ended phenomenally – he did so well. And at graduation, he looked so grown-up and so handsome. He's like a different kid now!"

*All client names and some identifying details have been changed in order to protect confidentiality.

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