PrograM Overview

Our problem-based learning trainings go beyond one-pagers and textbooks, bringing participants into real-world situations where they can apply their knowledge, and explore their assumptions in a safe learning environment. Under the guidance of a certified facilitator, your workforce or students will observe, discuss, and make decisions that impact the rest of the simulation. All the while, defining problems, uncovering information, and working together to identify and evaluate possible solutions.

Participants who attend a Project FORECAST simulation can expect increased engagement in the learning process, better outcomes at work, higher staff retention, and improved Trauma-Informed Experiential Reasoning Skills (TIERS). Plus, the innumerable benefits of better helping children impacted by trauma and abuse.

Class sizes vary by location and funding source, but we’re committed to making FORECAST as financially accessible as possible. Simulations can be conducted in-person or remotely and range from 4-6 hours, or can be broken up over multiple sessions to meet the needs of participants.

We’re ready to answer any questions you have, and can’t wait to hear from you.

Our Mission

Project FORECAST aims to develop training partnerships between universities with Child Advocacy Studies (CAST) programs and their local workforces. Together, we can increase retention of current professionals, better facilitate transitions into the workforce, and improve the competence of those entering a child-serving sector.

Available Simulations

Each simulation is tailored to a unique setting and set of problems, so participants can explore the subjects most related to their field of work.

Abuse Disclosure

Better understand the responsibilities of a mandated reporter, and how to conduct an interview after an accidental disclosure of abuse.

Healthcare Setting

Get insight on investigating abuse in a medical setting, including mandated reporting, family interviews, and safety planning.

Home Investigation

Gain exposure to post-report processes, such as interviewing alleged offenders and identifying physical evidence in a home.

Forensic Process

Explore a forensic investigation in-depth, and better understand how multidisciplinary teams can work together throughout the legal process.

"At [our] simulation, we had a sheriff's detective attend who had little experience in working with children and trauma. Two weeks after our training he happened to be on-call when a report of child abuse came in. He contacted us the next day and said he would not have known what to do had it not been for the Project FORECAST Simulation he attended."

Brandi Regan
Dragonfly House Child Advocacy Center