In systems of care, State, county, and local agencies partner with families and communities to address the multiple needs of children and families involved in child welfare and other service systems. At the heart of the effort is a shared set of guiding principles that include interagency collaboration; individualized strengths-based care; cultural competence; child, youth, and family involvement; community-based services; and accountability. These principles are essential elements of any successful system of care. The implementation of these principles reflects the common goals of the agency, community, and family to ensure the safety, permanency, and well-being of children, youth, and families.

Interagency collaboration
Engages child- and family-serving agencies from the public, private, and faith-based sectors.

Individualized strengths-based care
Acknowledges each child and family's unique set of strengths and challenges and builds care plans that optimize those strengths while meeting the challenges.

Cultural competence
Refers to a defined set of organizational values and principles, as well as behaviors, attitudes, policies, and structures that enable systems to work effectively cross-culturally.

Family and youth involvement
Requires mutual respect and meaningful partnership between families and professionals at all levels.

Community-based services
Engaging home, school, and community-based resources as the optimal method for providing care and support to children and families.

Accountability
Refers to the continual assessment of practice, organizational, and financial outcomes to determine the system of care's effectiveness in meeting the needs of children and families.