Advisers

Eduardo E. Villaruel, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

This study assesses the effectiveness of an outreach program in protecting children-at-risk in Barangay 176_E, Bagong Silang, Caloocan City. Children-at-risk often face abuse, neglect, poverty, and exposure to criminal behavior, making them vulnerable to long-term developmental challenges. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, the research examines how factors at the microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, and macrosystem levels influence child protection. The outreach program implemented in the community seeks to reduce vulnerability and enhance the safety and well-being of children through education, social engagement, and coordinated local efforts. The study evaluates the program’s strengths and weaknesses and offers strategic recommendations for improvement. A descriptive research design is employed, with purposive sampling to select fifty respondents, including twenty children-at-risk, twenty barangay officials, and ten representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Data are gathered using a validated survey questionnaire and processed through descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, and weighted mean. A four-point Likert scale measures respondents’ agreement with statements regarding the program’s impact across the different ecological system levels. Respondents showed strong agreement on the outreach program’s effectiveness at all ecological system levels. At the microsystem level, increased child participation in positive activities received the highest rating (mean_=_3.40). Collaboration between families, leaders, and authorities in the mesosystem was rated highest (mean_=_3.50). Communication between families and schools in the exosystem stood out (mean_=_3.36). At the macrosystem level, positive cultural shifts toward child protection were recognized (mean_=_3.44). The most frequently encountered problems were insufficient funding (82%), lack of trained professionals (76%), and absence of long_term support (76%). Effective strategies identified included community_based activities, strong partnerships with law enforcement, and provision of mental health services. The outreach program in Barangay 176_E was perceived as significantly beneficial in safeguarding children-at-risk, fostering positive engagement, and building community resilience. However, the program faced challenges related to limited resources and operational constraints. As a result, it is recommended to enhance collaboration among stakeholders, secure sustainable funding, and integrate continuous evaluation mechanisms to strengthen and sustain the program’s long-term impact.

Keywords

ecological systems theory, community collaboration, outreach program, children-at-risk, program evaluation