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State Resources - Results (24 Publications)

Title: Mini-CFSR Review Onsite Review Instrument and Instructions.
Published: 2010
Available from: Wyoming Department of Family Services
http://dfsweb.state.wy.us/
Hathaway Building
2300 Capitol Ave.
Cheyenne, WY 82002
Printable version (PDF): http://dfsweb.state.wy.us/pdf/05MiniCFSRInstrument%20_Hard%20Copy__1.pdf
Abstract: This Onsite Review Instrument is designed to be used to review both foster care and in-home services cases. The process for gathering information to complete the Onsite Review Instrument includes conducting case record reviews and case-related interviews with children, parents, foster parents, caseworkers, and other professionals involved with the child. The instrument is organized into a face sheet and three sections. On the Case Description, reviewers document general information about a case, such as the type of case. The three sections focus on the outcome domains that form the basis of the child and family services reviews: safety, permanency, and child and family well-being. For each outcome, the reviewers collect information on a number of items related to that outcome. The instrument also includes a quality assurance review of onsite review instruments and concludes with a case rating summary form. Directions for completing the instrument are provided.

Title: Gearing Up to Improve Outcomes for Families: New York State Collaborative Practice Guide for Managers and Supervisors in Child Welfare, Chemical Dependency Services, and Court Systems.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement.
http://muskie.usm.maine.edu/helpkids/
Muskie School-USM
P.O. Box 15010
400 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04112-5010
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/publications/Pub5073.pdf
Abstract: This guidebook, developed with technical assistance provided by the National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare (NCSACW), is based on the premise that when substance use disorders affect children and families, children can suffer from abuse and/ or neglect. When this occurs, it is essential that the Chemical Dependency, Child Welfare and Family Court systems work together with families to achieve child safety, sustained parental recovery, and family wellbeing. This tool was created to serve as a desk reference for staff to assist in maximizing their effectiveness in working with families, and each other. It is only through collaboration and communication across systems and with families that we can give families an opportunity to achieve long-term recovery. This guide is designed specifically for the State of New York, and is modeled after the ACS/OASAS protocol as well as the national SAFERR (Screening and Assessment for Family Engagement, Retention and Recovery) model. Like SAFERR, this guide is based on three overarching principles: (1) The co-occurrence of child maltreatment and substance use disorders demands urgency, and the highest standards of practice from everyone charged with assuring child safety and promoting family wellbeing; (2) Success is possible and feasible. Staff in each system has the desire and potential to change individual lives and create responsible public policies; and (3) Family members must be active partners and participants in addressing these problems. This guide highlights the opportunities for the caseworkers, Chemical Dependency counselors, and court personnel that work with families to coordinate their efforts in order to: (1) Establish local cross-system teams to share information and coordinate case planning and service delivery to improve the ability of families to succeed; (2) Develop tools and strategies to incorporate into daily practice protocols; (3) Provide Courts with information to facilitate timely and informed decisions regarding child safety and permanency; and (4) Employ jointly defined mechanisms for problem-solving and success-sharing. (Author abstract)

Title: DRAFT Cultural Awareness Guide for Children from Eldorado.
Published: 2008
Available from: Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/
701 W. 51st Street
Austin, TX 78751
Printable version (PDF): http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/documents/about/pdf/2008-04-22_Cultural_Awareness_Guide_for_Children_from_Eldorado.pdf
Abstract: In order to meet the needs of the children from Eldorado, caregivers should be aware of and prepared to deal with their unique cultural practices and beliefs. The purpose of this is guide to provide information on how these children have been cared for prior to placement outside the FLDS compound and since April 4/5, 2008, when they were placed in shelters. In addition, a glossary of terms that the children may use in their every day language is provided. Although this information is not all inclusive, it can be helpful when communicating with and caring for these children. (Author abstract)

Title: Ads From the Public Advertising Campaign to Recruit Child Protective Specialists Featuring 12 "Real" Caseworkers.
Published: 2008
Available from: New York City Administration for Children's Services
http://www.nyc.gov/html/acs
150 William Street, 18th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Document available online at: http://www.nyc.gov/html/acs/html/career/work_cps_ads.shtml
Printable version (PDF): http://www.nyc.gov/html/acs/downloads/pdf/career_cps_ads.pdf
Abstract: The New York City Administration for Children's Services launched its first large-scale public advertising campaign in 2008 to recruit Child Protective Specialists, the frontline caseworkers who investigate child abuse and neglect. The recruitment campaign advertisements, titled "We Stand By New York City's Children," feature the photographs of 12 current Children's Services caseworkers and supervisors who work in Field Offices throughout the City. The ads challenge potential applicants to consider whether they have the key attributes necessary to doing the job well, asking: "Are You Smart Enough, Are You Brave Enough, Are You Strong Enough, to be a Child Protection Specialist?" (Author abstract)

Title: Kentucky's Family Preservation Program: Comprehensive Program Evaluation.
Published: 2008
Available from: Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services
http://chfs.ky.gov/
275 East Main Street
Frankfort, KY 40621
Printable version (PDF): http://chfs.ky.gov/NR/rdonlyres/1C6C930E-A2D9-4336-8CBF-CDA1C2D2D31A/0/FPPEvaluation_Final.pdf
Abstract: This report discusses the findings of an eight-part evaluation of Kentucky's Family Preservation Program (FPP) services. The evaluation was based on FPP provider-collected data on all families and children served from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007; data from the State's Automated Child Welfare Information System on referrals and out-of-home care (OOHC); financial data; two statewide surveys of DCBS staff and families served by FPP; a focus group with DCBS FPP leaders; and FPP provider feedback. Part 1 of the report provides background information on FPP and describes the rationale for the program, previous evaluation findings, and the methodology for the current evaluation. Part 2 discusses findings on the following evaluation components: the characteristics of families receiving FPP, consistency with the FPP service model, and family functioning before and after FPP; referrals to the Department of Community Based Services (DCBS) of FPP families and non-FPP families; the out-of-home care (OOHC) of children in families served by FPP and non-FPP families; the unmet need for FPP services; and the cost-benefit of FPP services. Findings from client survey results, surveys of DCBS FPP staff, and the DCBS FPP leadership focus group are also shared. Results indicate FPP services are provided to families with high risks, young children, and more chronic involvement with CPS services. FPP services are successful in reducing entry to OOHC, speeding reunification for children, and promoting family well being. More hours of FPP service to the family were associated with more gains in family functioning and less propensity to enter OOHC. Although family functioning improved after FPP, more than 32% of families still struggled with significant weaknesses in family functioning at closure. Families and DCBS staff and leaders were found to be highly satisfied with FPP services but frustrated with the limited availability of services and model constraints. Finally, it is concluded that each dollar spent on FPP saved $2.85 in cost avoidance. Recommendations for program improvement are discussed. 27 tables, 28 figures, 22 references.

Title: Safety and Risk of Harm.
Published: 2008
Available from: Iowa Department of Human Services
http://www.dhs.iowa.gov/
Hoover State Office Building
1305 E. Walnut
Des Moines, IA 50319
Printable version (PDF): http://www.dhs.state.ia.us/docs/02.08-Safety_and_Risk_of%20Harm.pdf
Abstract: This Practice Bulletin provides Iowa DHS definitions for Safety and Risk; as well as summarizes the federal expectations and provides some practice tips. (Author abstract)

Title: Supervisory Training to Enhance Permanency Solutions (STEPS) [Website].
Published: 2008
Available from: Center for Adoption Research
http://www.centerforadoptionresearch.org
University of Massachusetts Medical School
Reed, Rose and Gordon Building
196 Maple Avenue
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Document available online at: http://www.steps-umms.org/index.aspx
Abstract: Supervisory Training to Enhance Permanency Solutions (STEPS) is a professional development program comprised of six training modules. The modules were designed to enhance Massachusetts Department of Social Services (DSS) supervisory practices with respect to specific strategies to engage and support social workers in the management of adolescent care, including promoting permanency and preparing adolescents for young adulthood. (Author abstract)

Title: Case Management Optimization: Stakeholder Involvement.
Published: 2008
Available from: Texas Health and Human Services Commission
http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/
Brown-Heatly Building
4900 North Lamar Boulevard
7th Floor
Austin, TX 78751
Printable version (PDF): http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/reports/CaseManagement_Stakeholder.pdf
Abstract: The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) contracted with Navigant Consulting, Inc. for assistance in the optimization of the state's case management services. In 2005, the Texas Legislature enacted Senate Bill 1188, which directs HHSC to assess, review and undertake optimization of case management programs and services across the HHSC enterprise. In response to Section 2.4.2.5 of the HHSC RFP, this document reports on the use of stakeholder involvement in the analysis of the current case management system and in the development of case management optimization recommendations which are described in detail in the Analysis of the Current Case Management System in Texas report and the Recommendations for Improving Case Management in Texas report. This report also includes a summary of stakeholder comments and the contractor's approach to obtaining comments. (Author abstract)

Title: New York State Partnership for Family Recovery Training Plan.
Published: 2007
Available from: National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement.
http://muskie.usm.maine.edu/helpkids/
Muskie School-USM
P.O. Box 15010
400 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04112-5010
Abstract: The plan outlined in this document details a three-step process to encourage local communities to strengthen their cross-systems work between child welfare, substance abuse treatment, and family court to best support vulnerable families. This process has been developed through the New York State Partnership for Family Recovery, as supported by the National Center for Substance Abuse and Child Welfare (NCSACW). The process, which is designed to complement the NYS Protocol for Cross-Systems Communication and Information Sharing, incorporates a public awareness campaign targeting professionals, a broad-based training initiative, and a more targeted advanced training and technical assistance effort in select counties. The process leverages the power of existing stakeholder groups, conferences and trainings to maximize communication and skill development across the state. (Author abstract)

Title: Healthy Start of Oregon 2005-2006 Status Report Data Tables: Appendix A.
Published: 2007
Available from: NPC Research
http://www.npcresearch.com
4380 SW Macadam Avenue, Suite 530
Portland, OR 97239-6408
Printable version (PDF): http://www.npcresearch.com/Files/Healthy_Start_Status_Report_Appendices_2005-06.pdf
Abstract: This appendix includes 36 data tables that present the FY 2005-06 outcomes of Healthy Start of Oregon, a program designed to offer all first-time parents a range of services appropriate to their needs, ranging from information and educational materials to longer-term, more intensive home visiting services that continue throughout the early childhood years. The data address: characteristics of screened participants; risk factors of screened families; health insurance and health care at screening; acceptance of intensive service; level of Healthy Start service; characteristics of intensive service families; health insurance and health care at screening of intensive service families; risk factors of intensive service families; retention rates by demographic characteristics; reasons for exiting program; immunizations; prenatal care for subsequent births; child growth and development; family outcomes and life events; promotion of positive parenting skills; school readiness; promotion of parent-child interaction; cultural competency and strength orientation of home visitors; ratings of home visitor helpfulness; and parent stress and income change. Data sources are identified and a glossary is provided.

Title: Relative Search and Placements.
Published: 2007
Available from: Iowa Department of Human Services
http://www.dhs.iowa.gov/
Hoover State Office Building
1305 E. Walnut
Des Moines, IA 50319
Printable version (PDF): http://www.dhs.state.ia.us/docs/01.08_Relative_Search_and_Placements.pdf
Abstract: This bulletin discusses best practices for placing foster children with relative caregivers. It explains the benefits of kinship care, steps for conducting a diligent search for relative caregivers, activities that support a diligent search, documentation of a diligent search, and assessment of the safety of a kinship placement. Additional considerations are addressed for assessing multiple options, assessing the protective capacity of the caregiver, managing kinship relationships, and providing supports for kin. 2 references.

Title: A Guide to Child Protective Services for Relatives.
Published: 2007
Available from: Alaska Dept. of Health and Social Services
http://www.hss.state.ak.us
Office of the Commissioner
PO Box 110601
Juneau, AK 99811
Printable version (PDF): http://www.hss.state.ak.us/ocs/Publications/relativeGuide.pdf
Abstract: This booklet will help you to understand the reasons children come into the care of the Office of Children's Services (OCS), the responsibility of the state, the role of the court, the importance of relatives and the options available to relatives. (Author abstract)

Title: Iowa Department of Human Services Child Welfare Model of Practice.
Published: 2007
Available from: Iowa Department of Human Services
http://www.dhs.iowa.gov/
Hoover State Office Building
1305 E. Walnut
Des Moines, IA 50319
Printable version (PDF): http://www.dhs.iowa.gov/docs/IW_CW_Model_of_Practice_050107.pdf
Abstract: DHS's child welfare model of practice is intended to define who we serve and the intended outcomes of child welfare services, as well as the guiding principles for our work and expectations related to practice and program and organizational capacity. This statement of practice has been developed to define, affirm, guide, reinforce and support DHS's strength-based and family centered model of practice at all levels. The model of practice is intended to guide practice in individual cases and at the program and organizational level, and can be used as a basis of comparison in measuring or judging capacity, quantity, and quality. The standards in this document establish DHS's expectations for both front-line practice and for program and organizational capacity. (Author abstract)

Title: Manual para los jóvenes en el sistema de cuidado de crianza (Handbook for Youth in Foster Care)
Author(s): McBride, Rebecca.
Published: 2007
Available from: New York State Office of Children and Family Services
http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us
Capital View Office Park
52 Washington Street

Rensselaer, NY 12144-2796
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/publications/Pub5028-S.pdf
Abstract: This handbook is for youth placed in foster care through local departments of social services (DSS) (not the juvenile justice system). The handbook was written for youth entering foster care for the first time as well as youth already in foster care.

Este manual es para los jóvenes que han sido colocados o ubicados en el sistema de cuidado de crianza por intermedio de los departamentos locales de servicios sociales (no por el sistema de justicia juvenil). El manual fue redactado para los jóvenes que ingresan al sistema de cuidado de crianza por primera vez y para los jóvenes que ya se encuentran en hogares de crianza.

Title: Home Safety Checklist for Child Protective Service Workers.
Published: 2007
Available from: Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
http://www.state.il.us/DCFS
406 East Monroe
Springfield, MO 62701
Printable version (PDF): http://www.state.il.us/DCFS/docs/cfs2027.pdf
Abstract: Includes checklist and instructions.

Title: Statement of Shared Values and Guiding Principles / Minnesota Children's Justice Initiative-Alcohol and Other Drug Project.
Published: 2006
Available from: Minnesota Judicial Branch
http://www.mncourts.gov/
Minnesota Judicial Center
25 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
Printable version (PDF): http://www.mncourts.gov/documents/0/Public/Children's_Justice_Initiative/Statement_of_Shared_Values_Guiding_Principles_(final).pdf
Abstract: The purpose of this Statement is to guide the collaborative efforts of the undersigned parties as they work together to improve the effective delivery of services by local agencies and the courts, on behalf of children and families involved in the child protection system due to alcohol and other drug problems. The undersigned parties will cooperate to provide leadership and guidance to the courts, child welfare agencies and AOD service providers. (Author abstract)

Title: Oregon Children, Adults and Families: Expert Review of the Safety Intervention System.
Published: 2005
Available from: Oregon Department of Human Services
http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/
500 Summer St. NE
Salem, OR 97301
Printable version (PDF): http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/abuse/publications/children/nrccps_report.pdf
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to provide an expert review of the Oregon Children, Adults and Families (CAF) safety intervention system in comparison to the state of the art of Child Protective Services (CPS) safety intervention nationally. The state of the art consists of 1) the state of the knowledge base that defines, directs and supports the concept, standards and practice of safety intervention and 2) actual application occurring nationally in case practice. Notably the knowledge base is generally well formed and continuing to evolve while the nature and quality of application lags behind. Simply stated, what is known about safety intervention exceeds what currently is being done in practice. The objectives of the study included: (1) To judge the extent to which components of the safety intervention system provide sufficient guidance and support for staff to perform competently; (2) To conduct an expert comparative assessment of system components related to staff self assessment; and (3) To identify the extent to which the design of the safety intervention system can be considered to be ahead of, consistent with or behind the state of the art. This study considered the characteristics and sufficiency of the safety intervention system. The study did not evaluate and findings do not reflect the quality of safety intervention case practice and decision-making. (Author abstract)

Title: West Virginia Rural Domestic Violence and Child Victimization Enforcement Program Project Evaluation, Project Year 2002-2004. Final Report.
Author(s): Turley, Erica.;Haas, Stephen M.
Published: 2005
Available from: West Virginia Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS)
http://www.wvdcjs.com/
1204 Kanawha Boulevard, East
Charleston, WV 25301
Printable version (PDF): http://www.wvdcjs.com/statsanalysis/publications/RuralDV04rpt.pdf
Abstract: This report presents the findings from an evaluation of the Rural Domestic Violence & Child Victimization Enforcement grant project conducted by the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WVCADV). The project, active from October 2002 through September 2004, focused on continuing to improve services to domestic violence victims from four traditionally underserved populations: people in later life, people with disabilities, people of color, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender communities. In addition, the project addresses the issue of the co-occurrence of domestic violence and child victimization through research, education, and training. (Author abstract)

Title: A Guide to Understanding the Child Protection Registry: Think of the Child First.
Published: 2004
Available from: Delaware Dept. of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families
http://kids.delaware.gov/
1825 Faulkland Rd.
Wilmington, DE 19805-1195
Printable version (PDF): http://www.state.de.us/kids/pdfs/broch_fs_ucpr_2004.pdf
Abstract: This guide explains the Child Protection Registry, a registry that contains the names of individuals who have been substantiated for incidents of abuse or neglect since August 1, 1994. The four different levels on the Child Protection Registry that relate to physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect are described, and examples are provided of the type of offenders that are assigned to each level. Answers to questions frequently asked about the registry are provided.

Title: ICWA Resource Binder.
Published: 2003
Available from: Judicial Council of California
http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/jc/
455 Golden Gate Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94102-3688
Printable version (PDF): http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/programs/cfcc/programs/description/jrta-ICWAResourceBinder.htm
Abstract: This resource binder includes background information on the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), current federal provisions, and California law regarding child welfare services for Indian children. Section 1 includes a presentation on the historical and cultural context of ICWA and information on early California laws and policies related to California Indians. Section 2 explains provisions of ICWA, Bureau of Indian Affairs guidelines, ICWA regulations, and California Rules of Court. Relevant judicial council forms are included. Section 3 provides resource information on ICWA services and programs in Northern California, including the Native American Health Center, the American Indian Child Resource Center, Friendship House, the California Department of Social Services, the Indian Child and Family Preservation Program, and the Judicial Council of California. Resources for Southern California are then provided, followed by statewide resources on the National Indian Justice Center and recruiting rural parents for Indian children. The final section has national resources explaining the Native American Rights Fund, the National Indian Child Welfare Association, and ICWA, and the designation of an Indian Custodian.

Title: Protecting New Jersey's Children and Families from Substance Abuse.
Published: 2003
Available from: New Jersey Dept. of Human Services
http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/
222 South Warren Street, P.O. Box 700

Trenton, NJ 08625-0700
Printable version (PDF): http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/Reports/Substance%20Abuse/CFSR-WorkgroupReport%20_Final_%20-%20Substance%20Abuse1.pdf
Abstract: This report contains the recommendations of a workgroup established by the New Jersey Department of Human Services to examine the relationship between child welfare and substance abuse. The work group was composed of persons from a cross-section of disciplines and branches of government that interface with the child welfare system. After a series of meetings and discussions from December 2002 through September 2003, the work group finalized the recommendations. The recommendations developed by the Substance Abuse Work Group speak to four primary challenges which persist for serving parents and families needing substance abuse treatment: the need for more substance abuse training for Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) workers; more appropriate treatment options for at-risk families; safety and permanency plans for children that consider the entire family unit; and better cooperation among the government and non-government entities that touch the lives of children every day. The report discusses the effects of substance abuse on parenting skills and the threat to child safety and well-being. It describes the implementation and findings from New Jersey and federal programs that address substance abuse, including: the Substance Abuse Initiative, the Substance Abuse Research Demonstration (SARD) project, the Child Protection Substance Abuse Initiative, and the Adoption and Safe Families Act. The method used by the Substance Abuse Work Group to develop their recommendations is explained and the recommendations are presented. For each recommendation, the report describes the purpose of the recommendation, targeted activities, action steps, lead agency, timeframe, and key practices of research evaluation projects. 22 references.

Title: Review of the Child Protective Services Intake Process.
Published: 2002
Available from: Oregon Department of Human Services
http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/
500 Summer St. NE
Salem, OR 97301
Printable version (PDF): http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/abuse/publications/children/cpsintakerpt.pdf
Abstract: This report discusses the outcomes of a review of the child protection intake process used in the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS). The review sought to document current child protective intake practices, assess the impact of new and proposed changes in DHS policies and procedures for responding to child abuse reports, and identify possible improvements in DHS practices. The investigation included: a review of relevant previous reports and studies provided by DHS; site visits to four Service Delivery Areas, including six branch offices; and an analysis of certain 2001 data provided by DHS or obtained in the site visits. The review found that DHS has the policies, systems, and procedures in place needed to address the key performance requirements of an effective child protection intake system, and that branches were making diligent efforts to comply with DHS policies. It concludes, however, that there are opportunities for improvement related to several of the details and features of the policies, systems, and procedures. Recommendations for improving the effectiveness of DHS in protecting children from abuse and neglect are proposed.

Title: West Virginia Rural Domestic Violence and Child Victimization Enforcement Program Project Evaluation, Project Year 2000-2002.
Author(s): Turley, Erica.
Published: 2002
Available from: West Virginia Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS)
http://www.wvdcjs.com/
1204 Kanawha Boulevard, East
Charleston, WV 25301
Printable version (PDF): http://www.wvdcjs.com/publications/RuralDVEVALRPT.pdf
Abstract: This report presents the findings from an evaluation of the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence's (Coalition) Rural Domestic Violence & Child Victimization Enforcement grant project. The project, active from October 2000 through September 2002, focused on improving services to domestic violence victims from four traditionally underserved populations: the elderly, people of color, people with disabilities, and people from the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender community. In addition, the project would begin addressing the issue of the co-existence of domestic violence and child victimization. (Author abstract)

Title: Foster Care Program Federal Earnings Plan.
Published: 2001
Available from: Washington Department of Social and Health Services
http://www1.dshs.wa.gov/
PO Box 45710
Olympia, WA 98504-5710
Printable version (PDF): http://www1.dshs.wa.gov/pdf/EA/GovRel/leg0102/FCPFEP.pdf
Abstract: This plan identifies how the Children's Administration plans to increase Title IV-E federal earnings for the 2001-03 Biennium.

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