Welcome to the Vermont Family and Child Health Journey Mapping Study!
Who are we?
We are a team of researchers from the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation. We are working with Vermont’s Department of Health to learn more about local families’ experiences using services.
What are we doing?
We are looking for families to take part in a study of how parents of young children (ages 8 and younger) receive different services in Vermont. If you join, we will ask you to share your family’s “story” of how, when, and why you accessed services. By sharing your story, you’ll help us gain a better understanding of the “journey” families take—what challenges and supports you found along the way.
Why are we interested in learning families’ stories?
Gathering this information will help improve services that support children in Vermont.
How long will it last and what will families receive?
This study will last 7-9 months. You may receive up to $1,000.
Do you have any questions?
Please email us at familyjourneymapping@pire.org or call us at 802-300-0338.
Who is eligible?
You may be eligible if you:
- Live in Vermont.
- Have at least one child 8 years or younger.
- Currently use, or are eligible for services related to housing, mental health, substance use, employment, children’s needs, or basic needs (e.g., WIC, transportation, gas money, etc.).
- Receive a study referral from a PCC or school staff member.
Meet our staff
Amy Livingston
Researcher
Amy has been a public health researcher at the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation (PIRE) for 17 years. She lives in Burlington, Vermont and enjoys all of Vermont’s seasons, especially spring (minus the mud!) and fall. She is excited to be working on the VT Family and Child Health Journey Mapping Study for the opportunity to uplift the voices and experiences of parents and caregivers across Vermont to help strengthen the services that so many Vermont families depend on.
Vanessa Melamede Berman
Researcher
Vanessa is a public health researcher living in Burlington with her family and dog. As a parent and community member, Vanessa brings both professional and personal commitment to her research. She values the VT Family Journey Mapping study for its focus on learning directly from parents, using their experiences to help improve systems that serve families throughout Vermont.
Julia Pencek
Researcher
Julia is a public health researcher at PIRE. She lives in Vermont and enjoys all of Vermont’s outdoor activities and beauty. She is enthusiastic about contributing to the VT Family and Child Health Journey Mapping Study and looks forward to identifying ways systems and services can better support the health and success of Vermont families.
Adam Gilbertson
Researcher
Adam is an anthropologist and public health research specialist at PIRE. He lives in Washington state but has good friends and colleagues in Vermont and has visited and loves all the area has to offer. What excites him most about the VT Family and Child Health Journey Mapping Study is the opportunity it provides to work closely with local families, hear their stories, and learn about their experiences navigating access to services.
Winnie Luseno
Researcher
Winnie is a public health researcher at PIRE with more than 25 years of experience leading research studies. She lives in North Carolina with her family and enjoys listening for bird songs, reading, catching up on podcasts, and trying new recipes—especially when she can bring in the spices and herbs she grew up with from her Kenyan roots. At the heart of Winnie’s work is a strong belief in listening to people and learning from their lived experiences. She feels grateful to be working on the Family Journey Mapping Study and to help make sure families in Vermont have a meaningful opportunity to share their stories.