Abstract

The purpose of this project was to trace the developments which led to the utilization of para- profes s iona1 persons as service aides in public welfare departments and to examine. in particular, the devel opments in Oregon at the state and county levels. The establishment of such programs was mandated in the Social Security Amendments of 1967. A review of the 1967 legislation showed the legislative intent to be inconsistent with the stated purposes of the program. This inconsistency. it was found. has been reflected in Oregonls aide program. The theoretical origins underlying the aide concept were also examined in order to provide a fuller understanding of the means which were finally selected in Oregon to meet the legislative require ments. The aide program which evolved in Oregon has been marked by confusion in two major areas. the establishment of goals and the