Outlines the philosophical principles and the practical approaches for a family-centered, community-based program aimed at child welfare reform. Funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the Family-to-Family program is established in major urban and suburban areas nationwide. The challenges facing children in the foster care system are briefly outlined and include behavioral and physical problems, HIV/AIDS issues, and the crisis of declining numbers of foster parents. The program requires that all participants- children, social workers, birth parents, foster parents, and community agencies- build bridges that support the needs of the child. Building community partnerships, especially with churches, is a critical objective. For example, Los Angeles County has created contractual relationships with 500 community-based organizations to recruit foster parents, provide training and support to both foster and birth parents, and offer services and meeting space in the neighborhoods where the childrenlive. Success of the program relies upon the complete dedication to improving outcomes for children as well as proper sequencing of changes with continuous evaluation and feedback to program leadership. A list of the 17 tools developed by the Casey Foundation is provided in the text as well as an Internet address and location for further information.
