Resource Library

Describes the design and execution standards that are applied to all studies that receive a full review for the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse. Depicts the review process as a sequence of steps to arrive at a design and execution rating. Serves as a resource for STTs seeking to have a program meet the evidence standards for Title IV-E prevention funding.

Summarizes some of the latest studies related to child welfare workers of color and focuses on workforce development actions that jurisdictions can consider to address diversity, equity, and inclusion at both the individual professional and child welfare system levels.    

Presents findings from interviews with Illinois permanency caseworkers and supervisors regarding permanency planning for children under the care of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). This study concentrates on subsidized guardianship as an underutilized yet promising alternative for securing permanent homes for children in foster care, especially Black children.

Outlines the approaches to therapy, finding the right therapist and working with a therapist.

Provides a framework describing the unique family dynamics of kinship families.  Child welfare professionals can use this framework when engaging families and developing kinship program and services.

Explores how the Winnebago Tribes implemented Family Group Decision Making. Enables other sites to determine if the intervention would work for their jurisdiction and prepare for implementation.

Provides an overview of adoption competent therapist. This article outlines various therapeutic approaches such as family therapy, play therapy and trauma-informed therapy. It also provides guidance on finding a therapist who is trained in adoption and working with a therapist to ensure the best outcomes for the child and family.

Explores the needs behind and principles for services agencies can provide during the pre-permanence timeframe, offering examples of promising programs.

Explores recent research that investigates placement decisions and outcomes for former foster children adopted by relatives.

Aims to help child welfare agencies use data effectively to improve outcomes for children and families. It highlights the five steps in the framework: defining an area of focus, using data to explain issues, selecting strategies /tools, designing and implementing a plan and monitoring/evaluating progress. It emphasizes collaboration with staff, community partners and stakeholders as well as discusses the need for ongoing assessment and adjustment to ensure data-driven improvements in child welfare practices.