Handout 2:
Family Scenario:
The Greene Family

Instructions
Read the following scenario and identify the goals you believe the Greene's might want to achieve.

The Greene Family
Jon Greene: Father of three, janitor
Tania Greene: Mother of four, homemaker
Ricky Nash: Father of Wesley, bank loan officer
Wesley Nash: Age 13
Ellen Greene: Age 10
Jim Greene: Age 2

Mr. Jon Greene makes minimum wage as a janitor at a local sports arena. To earn extra money, he works overtime at night games. While the overtime pay is necessary to support his family, he misses seeing his children. Mr. Greene wants to complete a training program in auto mechanics in order to get one of the many mechanic jobs he sees advertised. He feels this would increase his family's standard of living and allow him to spend more time at home.

Mrs. Tania Greene stays at home with two-year-old Jim, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth. She has dreamed of moving for many years and complains that her family can no longer remain in its small two- bedroom apartment. Due to the crowded conditions, Wesley sleeps in the living room and Jim sleeps in his parents' bedroom. Three years ago, the Greene's applied for housing assistance. They were placed on a list and have never been contacted by the housing authority. The Greene's pay $500 per month for rent. Their only income is Mr. Greene's wages, food stamps, and a small SSI check. Mr. Greene is concerned that the family cannot afford an increase in the monthly rent, which a larger apartment would require.

Thirteen-year-old Wesley is an exceptional student. He is currently at the top of his class in every subject, and the school has suggested that he take advanced placement courses. Wesley's father, Ricky Nash, was ordered by the court to contribute to the support of his son. While Picky does visit Wesley once a month, Mrs. Greene tries to persuade Picky to visit his son more frequently. When Picky does visit, a fight usually ensues between Mr. Greene and Picky over Mr. Greene's parenting skills. For the last two months, Picky has not contributed to his son's support. During an argument over money, Mr. Greene yelled at his wife, telling her she had better get some money from her "no-good ex-husband." Upon overhearing the argument, Wesley ran out of the house. When he returned later that evening, his eyes were red from crying. Mr. Greene is a heavy smoker.

Mrs. Green is deeply upset by Wesley's increasing asthma attacks. She is continually harping on her husband to kick the habit.

Ten-year-old Ellen recently discovered boys, and much to her parents' dismay, she receives phone calls at all hours of the night from "friends." Ellen has had problems on the school bus and has been forced to defend herself Yesterday, Ellen was suspended from school for fighting.

Michele attends the local Head Start program, where she is loved by all. She is an active and creative child who especially likes to paint and draw. The Greene's and Michele's teacher recently completed an Individualized Education Plan which focused on helping Michele communicate in complete sentences.

You are meeting with the Greene's today to help them identify their goals for the future.

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