Historically, child welfare operated under the assumption that certain families could not properly care for their children. Deborah Daro, senior research fellow at Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago, reminds us that all families experience struggles and need help. Daro explains that prevention programs can be a unifying force to remind us that the entire community is responsible for providing these supports, not just child protective services.
Corey Best, member of the Birth Parent National Network, believes that every family has strengths and assets and that it’s essential for the child protection agency to identify them.
Casey Family Programs consults with individuals and teams across the country to compile research, experiences, and insights about approaches that can safely reduce the need for foster care and ensure the well-being of children and families. We share this information broadly to help child welfare leaders and their partners tackle similar issues in their own communities. For questions about this resource, or if you have other child welfare information needs, please email kmresources@casey.org.
