A system of care is a coordinated network of community-based services and supports that are organized to meet the challenges of children and youth with serious mental health needs and their families. Families and youth work in partnership with public and private organizations to design mental health services and supports that are effective, that build on the strengths of individuals, and that address each person's cultural and linguistic needs. A system of care helps children, youth and families function better at home, in school, in the community and throughout life.

RIPEP Overarching Goals

• Develop a sustainable infrastructure that systematically fosters collaboration between Positive Behavioral Interventions Supports (PBIS) schools, behavioral health community, early care and education, and broader social service system.
• Expand clinical/family support infrastructure and increase access to wraparound planning, natural supports, clinical and social services by reaching children and their families in the naturalized early care or school settings and creating accessed paths for services and supports.
• Meld system of care values and principles with the operational structure and approach of PBIS schools and early care and education programs