Program at a Glance
- Program: Access Navigator, offered by Ocean Partnership for Children
- Who it helps: Youth up to age 21 and their families
- What it does: Helps families contact PerformCare and request services
- Cost: Services are provided at no cost to the youth and family
- Access Navigator phone: 732-202-1585
- PerformCare phone: 877-652-7624, available 24/7, 365 days a year
- Email: info@oceanpartnership.org
Raising a child who is struggling can feel lonely. Many parents simply do not know where to start. Some call a doctor, while others ask a school counselor. Still, the path to real help often feels unclear.
That is why we want to share a new resource from a trusted local partner. Ocean Partnership for Children (OPC) recently launched its Access Navigator Program. The program helps families connect with PerformCare and the NJ Children’s System of Care.
At our Career Center, we meet parents every day. They come in looking for work, training, or a fresh start. Often, though, they also carry worries about a son or daughter at home. This new program gives us one more way to help.
Who Is Ocean Partnership for Children?
OPC serves as the Care Management Organization, or CMO, for our county. It has supported local youth and families since 2005. The agency works with young people up to age 21. Some of these youth have behavioral health, mental health, or substance use needs. Others have intellectual or developmental needs.
OPC uses what is called a wraparound model of care. In plain terms, the team looks at the whole family. Staff then connect the child with resources that match their unique needs. The goal is to keep kids at home, in school, and active in their community.
Their mission is short and clear. They aim to improve the wellbeing of youth and families through natural and community supports. OPC also manages OceanResourceNet, a free online directory of local programs and events.
What the Access Navigator Program Does
Why a Navigator Makes a Difference
There is one important rule to know. Families must be referred to OPC through PerformCare. PerformCare is the third-party System Administrator for the NJ Children’s System of Care. In other words, it acts as the front door for many children’s services in the state.
For some parents, that first call feels like a lot. They may not know what to say or what questions to expect. Others are juggling a new job, childcare, and a household budget. So one more phone call can easily slip to the bottom of the list.
The Access Navigator steps in at that moment. This staff member helps families reach PerformCare and understand what comes next. As a result, parents do not have to figure out the system on their own.
Two Ways to Get Started
Families have two options. First, they can call PerformCare directly at 877-652-7624. The line is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Alternatively, families can reach the Access Navigator for guidance first. Call 732-202-1585 or complete the Access Navigator referral form. The navigator will then help you contact PerformCare. After that, PerformCare handles the referral to OPC.
Signs a Family May Benefit from Support
Every child is different, and there is no single checklist. However, some signs suggest a family may want to reach out.
- A child’s mood or behavior has changed in a way that worries you
- School problems keep growing, such as missed days or discipline issues
- There are concerns about alcohol or drug use
- A child with developmental needs requires more support than the family can provide
- Parents feel stretched thin and unsure where to turn
Trust your instincts here. You know your child better than anyone. If something feels off, a phone call costs nothing. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988 at any hour.
How This Connects to Your Career Goals
Family Stability and Work Go Hand in Hand
It may seem odd to see this topic on a career center website. Yet family life and work life are closely tied. A parent worried about a child may struggle to focus on a job search. They might miss interviews or pass on training because home needs come first.
When a child gets proper support, the whole household benefits. Parents often gain the breathing room they need to plan their next step. That could mean a new job, a certification, or a return to school.
How Our Team Can Help
Our staff can share this resource during your next visit. We also keep a full list of support services on our community resources page. It covers mental health, housing, food assistance, and family services.
If you are a parent looking for work, explore our job and career services. You can also browse our weekly job listings for current openings. For young adults ages 16 to 24, our youth programs offer career exploration and work experience.
Some families have a child with a disability who is nearing working age. For them, our post on connecting individuals with disabilities to job opportunities is worth a read. Parents planning ahead may also enjoy our look at three career academies opening their doors to local families. For more helpful articles, visit our Learning Center.
Take the First Step Today
Asking for help is not a sign of failure. In fact, it shows strength and deep care for your family. The Access Navigator Program exists to make that first step easier.
Call OPC at 732-202-1585 to speak with the Access Navigator. You can also email info@oceanpartnership.org with questions.
For help with employment, training, or other local resources, contact our Career Center. Visit us at 1005 Hooper Avenue in Toms River, or call 732-240-5995. Our office hours are by appointment, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
