LOCAL PARTNERS
  

Cooperation and Coordination....
Build A Strong Network!

Since its inception in 1974, the Berks County Office Of Aging's philosophy of cooperation and coordination have enabled it to build a strong network and close working relationship with other public and private providers and organizations throughout the community.  Service coordination occurs through a variety of mechanisms, both formal and informal.  The Berks County Office of Aging contracts for many of the services it provides so that services are not duplicated.  Currently, the Office of Aging holds contracts with 50 community organizations.
 
Being part of county government facilitates coordination and cooperation with other human services providers who are also part of county government.  The Office of Aging has developed an ongoing relationship with Mental Health/Mental Retardation and works with agencies such as Children and Youth Services and the Council on Chemical Abuse.  Other agencies, such as Berks County Career Link and Berks County Parks Department, hold letters of agreement with the Office of Aging to provide specific programs.
 
Programs such as Protective Services have provided a basis for expanded relationships with the county's judicial, law enforcement, and legal systems.  Grants with the County’s District Attorney’s Office and Temple University have provided a unique relationship in team problem solving to reduce risk to older Berks Countians.  Agency staff participates on the Domestic Violence Task Force to develop educational programs for community groups.