Celebrate Lifelong Family Connections

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A publication sharing ideas and insights

VoicFall 2005 Volumee Six Issue Four

National Adoption Day 2005 U.S. Senators Craig and Landrieu on Adoption The Annie E. Casey Foundation Responds to Tragedies in the Gulf Region Protection for Children in Research 55000 Voice.qxp 10/31/05 6:50 PM Page 4

Raymond L. Torres

From the Executive Director’s Desk

Not long ago, I had the opportunity to take part in a community event in Hartford, Connecticut, designed to help parents protect their children from becoming lost without a trace. The timeliness of the event was clear, as hundreds of children remained missing in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

Perhaps the tragedy of Katrina heightened the importance of ensuring these children’s safety. The lines snaked around the building long before the doors opened at 9 a.m. on a Saturday. Throughout the day, hundreds of families with infants, toddlers, and teens alike arrived, eager to process photographs, ﬁngerprints, and dental imprints. Video cameras recorded interviews with each of the children, and all materials were given back to parents. These treasures will be carefully guarded at home, ready to present to authorities when andVoice if ever needed. This is the third year that Casey Family Services has helped to bring this important program into the Frog Hollow neighborhood of Hartford. I was proud to join Mayor Eddie A. Perez in welcoming families and in praising them for taking these vital precautions.

As the Gulf Coast region struggles to rebuild after two crushing hurricanes within a month, it saddens all of us to see the toll the storms have exacted on the region’s most fragile families. Perhaps most vulnerable of all have been the foster children of Louisiana, especially in New Orleans, many of whom now are separated not only from their birth families but also from the foster parents who represented the only stability in their young lives.

In the months ahead, Casey Family Services staff, each in his or her own way, will join their colleagues at the grant-making arm of the Annie E. Casey Foundation to contribute to the recovery. The Foundation has pledged to match individual monetary gifts from employees. In addition, the Foundation, including Casey Family Services, will work to help rebuild the state’s child welfare system and restore community-based organizations with whom we have partnered.

The next few weeks are a time of family celebrations for all of us. November is National Adoption Month, and in the days ahead, we will observe National Adoption Day, National Family Week, and Thanksgiving Day. Throughout the month, we will have the opportunity to reﬂect on the importance of family members in our own lives and celebrate those who have generously opened their homes and hearts to children in need.

Raymond L. Torres

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Raymond L. Torres

De la izquierda: Eddie A. Perez, el alcalde de Hartford, Connecticut, con Raymond L. Torres, el director ejecutivo de Casey Family Services, durante un acontecimiento reciente para familias en la comunidad. Del Escritorio del Director Ejecutivo

Hace no mucho tiempo, tuve la oportunidad de participar en un evento comunitario en Hartford, Connecticut, destinado a ayudar a los padres a evitar que sus hijos se pierdan y no poder localizarlos. El evento fue evidentemente oportuno, dados los cientos de niños que se extraviaron como consecuencia del Huracán Katrina.

Tal vez la tragedia de Katrina haya agudizado la importancia de garantizar la seguridad de estos niños. Las ﬁlas ya serpenteaban alrededor del ediﬁcio mucho tiempo antes de que las puertas se abrieran un sábado a las 9 a.m. Durante todo el día, llegaron cientos de familias con sus niños, ansiosos por procesar fotografías, huellas dactilares y registros dentales. Se grabaron entrevistas en cámaras de video con cada uno de los niños, y todo el material fue entregado a los padres. Estos tesoros serán cuidadosamente custodiados en el hogar, preparados para presentarlos ante las autoridades cuando, y si alguna vez, llegaran a necesitarse. Éste es el tercer año en que Casey Family Services ayuda a acercar este importante programa al vecindario de Frog Hollow en Hartford. Me enorgulleció haberme unido al Alcalde Eddie A. Perez para recibir a las familias y elogiarlas por tomar estas precauciones tan importantes.

Mientras la región del Golfo lucha por su reconstrucción luego de dos huracanes devastadores entre un mes, a todos nos duele ver las victimas que la tormentas se han cobrado en las familias más frágiles de la región. Quizás los más vulnerables hayan sido los niños bajo cuidado sustituto de Luisiana, especialmente en Nueva Orleans, muchos de los cuales ahora están apartados no sólo de sus familias de nacimiento sino también de los padres de crianza que representaban la única estabilidad en sus jóvenes vidas.

En los meses por delante, el personal de Casey Family Services, cada uno a su manera, se unirá a sus colegas de la división de entrega de subsidios de la Annie E. Casey Foundation para contribuir con la recuperación. La Fundación se ha comprometido a igualar las donaciones individuales monetarias de los empleados. Asimismo, la Fundación, junto con Casey Family Services, trabajará para ayudar a reconstruir el sistema estatal encargado del bienestar de los niños y a restaurar las organizaciones establecidas en la comunidad con las que nos hemos asociado.

Las próximas semanas son un tiempo de celebraciones familiares para todos nosotros. Noviembre es el Mes Nacional de la Adopción, y en los días siguientes, tendremos el Día Nacional de la Adopción, la Semana Nacional de la Familia y el Día de Acción de Gracias. Durante todo el mes, tendremos la oportunidad de reﬂexionar sobre la importancia de los familiares en nuestras propias vidas y también de honrar a aquellos que tan generosamente han abierto sus hogares y sus corazones a los niños necesitados.

Raymond L. Torres

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BRINGING FAMILIES TOGETHER THROUGH ADOPTION NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY 2005

On Saturday, November 19 – National In addition to encouraging adoption cere- To deepen the field’s understanding of what Adoption Day 2005 – an unprecedented monies, the National Adoption Day type of person might adopt children in fos- number of courts and community organiza- Coalition is looking to support states and ter care, the study reviews the 2002 tions across the nation will open on a nor- child welfare agencies in finding stable and National Survey of Family Growth, giving mal day off to finalize the adoptions of nurturing parents who are willing to adopt attention to women ages 18 to 44 with an thousands of children from foster care, as a child in foster care. expressed interest in growing their families. well as to honor all families formed by “Since women are the primary decision adoption. Expanding on the growing suc- Toward that end, the national coalition makers about adoption, this national profile cess of the annual event, the National again has commissioned the Urban Institute helps illustrate the demographics of this Adoption Day Coalition is championing of Washington, D.C., to conduct a national population,” says Ehrle Macomber. activities and celebrations throughout the research study to identify and assess strate- month, spotlighting the needs of the more gies to help more children find families. Torres is pleased by the month-long focus on adoption, which, along with family preser- than 118,000 children in foster care who While last year’s Urban Institute report need permanent and loving families. vation, reunification, guardianship, and examined systemic barriers to adoption and other enduring relationships, helps children “By partnering with the courts, judges, promising administrative solutions, the achieve the lifelong connections they need. attorneys, and advocates to finalize adop- “It is more than a legal status – adoption is tions, National Adoption Day has made the the recognition of a caring and uncondi- dream of a family come true for thousands tional bond between a parent and a child, a of children,” says Raymond L. Torres, exec- declaration of a lifelong commitment,” he utive director of Casey Family Services, a says. To help organizations and communi- founding partner in the national coalition. ties recognize and celebrate these significant “By setting aside this one Saturday to facili- connections, the National Adoption Day tate adoption ceremonies, we are offering Coalition has developed toolkits – available children the love they deserve and the 2005 study will focus more on the individ- online at www.nationaladoptionday.org – essential foundation they need for a success- uals involved in forming “forever families.” for those planning an event in their city. ful life.” Adoption is one of an array of per- Launched in July, this year’s research project This year, there are new materials for corpo- manency outcomes, he says. assesses the profiles of women who are rations and for faith-based organizations that wish to promote adoption. Last year, the courts and child welfare advo- interested in adoption, as well as the chil- cates finalized the adoptions of more than dren waiting to be adopted. Jennifer Ehrle National Adoption Day was founded in 3,400 children from foster care during Macomber, project manager for the study, 1997 by the Alliance for Children’s Rights National Adoption Day, organizing 200 says the Urban Institute also highlights in Los Angeles, California, which advanced events in 37 states. innovative strategies that bring these two the concept of voluntarily opening courts groups together. on a Saturday to help process foster care “Expectations this year are even higher,” Torres believes the study will forward per- adoptions more efficiently. Casey Family says Renette Oklewicz, grant manager at the Services, the Children’s Action Network, the Freddie Mac Foundation and chair of the manency planning for youth. “In addition to developing practices that support adop- Congressional Coalition on Adoption national coalition. “Our goal is to have a Institute, the Dave Thomas Foundation for National Adoption Day event in every tion in the public policy arena, states and child welfare agencies must embrace the Adoption, the Freddie Mac Foundation, state across the country to ensure that all and Target Corporation have since joined children have the opportunity to find a safe, process of finding adoptive families for children in foster care,” he says. with the Alliance to form the National permanent family.” Adoption Day Coalition.

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THOSE WITH CASEY CONNECTION HONORED ANGELS IN ADOPTION

The Congressional Coalition on Adoption couple has parented 13 children, nine with Institute – through its annual Angels in special needs. Tim and Maryellen also have Adoption Gala – provides an opportunity found the time to be trainers of potential for members of Congress to honor the good foster parents for the Maine Department of work of their constituents who have Health and Human Services and Casey enriched the lives of foster children and Family Services. They have spoken through- orphans. On September 13, 2005, in out the region about their experiences Washington, D.C., congressional leaders in parenting those with medical issues, honored several people with a Casey con- emotional disturbances, and mental health nection for their commitment to helping challenges. children ﬁnd “forever families.”

Jim Gannaway: U.S. Senator Jack Reed (Top, left to right): Rhode Island Division Director nominated Director Gannaway and his staff THE CONGRESSIONAL COALI- Jim Gannaway and adoptive parents Dana Kelly, at Casey Family Services’ Rhode Island TION ON ADOPTION INSTITUTE Linda Pouliot, Leslie Kelly, and Maryellen and Division for the organization’s dedication Tim Roma are honored in Washington, D.C., for and clinical expertise in serving families – THROUGH ITS ANNUAL their commitment to children. formed through adoption throughout the ANGELS IN ADOPTION GALA – (Above): Congressman Dave Camp honors state (see Casey Close-up on next page). Victoria Rowell as a National Angel in Adoption. PROVIDES AN OPPORTUNITY Dana and Leslie Kelly: U.S. Representative Tom Allen of Maine nominated the Kelly FOR MEMBERS OF CONGRESS role on CBS’ “The Young and the Restless” family for its unique and inspiring journey TO HONOR THE GOOD WORK television show. A mother of two, she of parenting. The couple, with two birth launched her own nonproﬁt organization, children, has served as adoptive and foster OF THEIR CONSTITUENTS WHO the Rowell Foster Children’s Positive Plan in parents for seven youth through Casey HAVE ENRICHED THE LIVES 1990. The foundation provides artistic, Family Services, helping these young people recreational, and cultural opportunities to thrive. In 2004, the family suffered the loss OF FOSTER CHILDREN AND vulnerable youth. Rowell has strived to of its 12-year-old adopted son, Daniel, to ORPHANS. increase public awareness on the issues of cancer. How the family bravely and com- adoption and foster care, serving as the passionately dealt with this event is national spokeswoman for Casey Family emblematic of its strength, wisdom, and Services and the National Foster Care In addition to these unsung heroes chosen Month Partnership. commitment to children. from all 50 states and the District of Tim and Maryellen Roma: U.S. Senator Columbia, a select few National Angels are Former National Angels include Olympia Snowe nominated the Roma fami- recognized each year for their adoption and Muhammad Ali, Dave Thomas, and Bruce ly of Maine for its unequaled courage in foster care advocacy on a broader, nation- Willis. wide scale. This year, the Congressional caring for children who are medically frag- The institute, whose foster care internship ile. In addition to four birth children, the Coalition on Adoption Institute honored Victoria Rowell for her work in improving program is funded by the Annie E. Casey the lives of children living in foster care. A Foundation, is a founding partner in the former foster youth herself, Rowell is an National Adoption Day Coalition. accomplished actress, earlier this year gar- nering an NAACP Image Award for her

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Casey Close-up JIM GANNAWAY: RHODE ISLAND DIVISION DIRECTOR

Jim Gannaway joined Casey Family Services from foster care into adoption, most all of important, however, to recruit resource fam- in 1992 to launch and direct the organiza- them adopted by their Casey foster parents. ilies not interested in adoption to help us tion’s ﬂedgling Rhode Island Division. Prior with our reuniﬁcation efforts. to becoming the division’s director, Jim We have many great staff and families wor- Gannaway managed the children and youth thy of the Angels in Adoption Award. Linda VOICE: As a clinical social worker and an programming for the community mental Pouliot, an adoptive and foster parent at attorney, you’ve combined two very differ- health center in Providence. He also kept busy Casey, joined me in Washington, D.C., to ent career paths. What led you to pursue in a private practice doing psychotherapy, accept the award on behalf of all those both professions? divorce mediation and an occasional criminal Casey families and staff. The sustaining GANNAWAY: When I started out as a social defense case. The original Rhode Island Team commitment that Linda and Ray, her husband, have made to their adoptive and fos- worker, my jobs took me into court pretty recruited by Jim included Arleen DiCicco, regularly. I felt that social workers didn’t get Cathy Lewis, and Jim Morris, all of whom ter children while working with Casey rep- resents the good work done across the a lot of respect in the courtroom. When the were instrumental in putting Casey on the opportunity for a fellowship to Saint Louis map with an effective state-wide foster care agency. Lisa Guillette, director of the Rhode Island Foster Parent Association, was the University School of Law presented itself, I program. Today the Providence-based Rhode took it. Island Division with its staff of 31 is a state co-recipient of the congressional award. OICE leader in providing an array of permanency VOICE: What role do you see Casey Family V : What’s been the impact of the divi- services for children and families. Services playing in Rhode Island? sion’s move to a more urban area?

VOICE: In September, you and the division ANNAWAY We have become much more GANNAWAY: Rhode Island is progressive in G : were honored by the Congressional establishing permanency as a goal for its involved with our neighborhood. While we Coalition on Adoption Institute as Angels children in care. As a result we have devel- continue to provide services throughout the in Adoption in your state. What are you oped our casework and clinical practice to state, being in South Providence and having and your staff doing to support adoptive fully embrace permanency. a Family Resource Center has allowed us to families? reach out into the community. VOICE: What has that shift in focus meant GANNAWAY: In the Rhode Island Division, in terms of your practice? We are looking to expand our outreach to we offer supports for all Rhode Island fami- families in the community. As a result of lies formed by adoption through foster care, GANNAWAY: In past years when a child our local partnerships, we can offer many kinship care, public and private sector as entered our foster care program, often from a services ranging from a law clinic to food well as international placements. These ser- psychiatric or residential facility, stability and preparation classes. vices are voluntary, free and aimed at meet- treatment took precedent over conversations ing families at their level of need. Recently about adoption. Today we are still very atten- We’ve also strengthened our connection to we have integrated the Casey Legal Clinic’s tive to the therapeutic needs of our children, the grant-making arm of the Annie E. Services into our post adoption work by while achieving stability of placement; how- Casey Foundation, which is funding several teaming third year law students with clini- ever, discussions regarding permanency plans projects in our communities: Making cians on cases requiring both perspectives. begin at intake. We are also more upfront Connections, the Jim Casey Youth with prospective foster parents, always asking Opportunities Initiative (JCYOI), and the In addition to our traditional post-adoption if they would consider adopting. So we are School-to-Career Partnership. Through services, we are committed to supporting placing children who will most likely be JCYOI alone, 75 kids in foster care are permanency for the children in our Foster moving to adoption with those families who learning and practicing important life skills. Care Program. We have moved 50 youth have indicated that they are open to the con- It’s been a great opportunity to bring these cept of foster care to adoption. It is also resources to Providence.

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U.S. SENATORS LARRY CRAIG & MARY LANDRIEU

U.S. Senators Larry Craig (R-Idaho)Close-up and Mary Landrieu (D-Louisiana) serve as co-chairs of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption (CCA) and as congressional directors of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute. Both lawmakers are adoptive parents and ardent advocates on issues involving youth permanency. The institute annually hosts its signature Angels in Adoption Gala, an opportunity for members of Congress to honor the unsung heroes in their home states. This year, more than 190 senators and representatives participated in the September 13 celebration, making it one of the most signiﬁcant congressional events focused on child welfare in 2005. Senator Craig and Senator Landrieu, whose home state of Louisiana recently had been decimated by Hurricane Katrina, attended the gala and shared their thoughts with Voice about the coalition, its institute, and federal support for adoption.

VOICE: What drew you to the issue of CRAIG: There is no speciﬁc congressional an informational and educational resource finding families for a lifetime for foster committee with jurisdiction over the issue for policymakers as they seek to draft posi- children? of adoption, although numerous federal tive adoption-related and foster care legisla- policies affect children who are adopted as tion. By organizing educational trips, con- CRAIG: I adopted my wife’s children from a well as adoptive families, so members of gressional brieﬁngs, and leadership training previous marriage. As that became known, Congress need to understand this issue. The programs, the institute educates members of other adoptive parents began to approach institute was formed a few years ago when Congress and their staffs about current me to tell their own adoption stories and to the CCA’s work outgrew the ability of indi- domestic and international adoption-related ask for help. vidual congressional offices to support it. matters. We also wanted to include outside interests LANDRIEU: I have been drawn to adoption so it would have a greater outreach beyond VOICE: What are the institute and the fed- since my youth. I am the youngest of nine eral government doing to encourage “every- children. One day, I found a child hiding the federal government, and that necessitat- ed the formation of the institute. We were day heroes” to step forward and adopt chil- under a merry-go-round in a park. I really dren in foster care? felt for that child. I started thinking about able to broaden our adoption promotion activities through the institute in ways that neglected children, and that drove my pas- CRAIG: After President George W. Bush sion for helping children in need. Also, my were previously impossible to do using tax- established the “Adopt US Kids” website at aunt was an adoptive parent so I had adopt- payer-provided resources within the House www.adoptuskids.org, the U.S. Depart- ed cousins. When I was elected to office at and Senate rules. Today, the institute is an ment of Health and Human Services the age of 23, I began my public work on independent entity that supports CCA worked with the Advertising Council to adoption issues. At age 32, I married my activities but also has an adoption promo- produce a national public service campaign husband, who was an adopted child. I just tion agenda of its own. to promote adoption from foster care. knew we would end up adopting, and we Beyond that, the federal government pro- LANDRIEU: The CCA was established in did: two children. So this issue has been a 1985 as a bicameral, bipartisan caucus of vides funding and resources for states to use lifelong passion for me. congressional members dedicated to in recruiting adoptive parents and moving improving adoption policy and practice and children from temporary foster placements VOICE: What was the original impetus for to permanent families. The institute also forming the Congressional Coalition on to focusing public attention on the advan- tages of adoption. In 2001, the CCA’s co- sponsors Angels in Adoption, a wonderful Adoption and the Congressional Coalition promotional event each year. We have on Adoption Institute? chairs created the institute to more effec- tively raise congressional and public aware- found that the publicity surrounding this ness about adoption. The institute serves as event as well as the advocacy of the “angels”

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Close-up

themselves are great ways for individuals in I worked with a young man who spoke very our local communities to learn what they highly of his foster dad on multiple occa- can do to help children in foster care who sions. You could tell that this boy felt a con- need permanent families. nection. So I decided to write a letter to the father. My message was very short and sim- LANDRIEU: The institute’s mission is to pro- ple. It said: “Why don’t you adopt?” And mote adoption and raise awareness about that’s exactly what happened. the issues related to adoption and foster (Left to right): Congressman James Oberstar; care. We have 180 members in the institute Senator Mary Landrieu; Deanna Carlson Stacy, LANDRIEU: Every child, no matter what age, now, and it is known as the most bipartisan executive director of the Congressional Coalition needs a family. Family is a natural structure on Adoption Institute; Senator Larry Craig; and entity in the legislature. Everyone is totally Congressman Dave Camp. where older kids help younger ones, older focused on the issues. Primarily, we learn folks tell stories that are passed down and educate ourselves about the needs of through the generations, and everyone is a children so we can be better advocates. The CRAIG: Several youth interns from foster part of that natural network. I still talk with institute is only five years old, but its out- care have worked in my office. My staff and my mom every day. Americans need to go reach extends around the world in its efforts I found them to be exceptionally energetic back to what is natural. That’s why it’s so to help children find families who will love and motivated workers. For the interns, it important for siblings to be able to remain and nurture them. has been an opportunity to build a profes- together in one family. No youth should sional resume and develop a variety of have to “age out” of foster care. VOICE: Do you see the federal government workplace skills, as well as form lasting further funding the availability of post- friendships and make contacts potentially VOICE: What do you view as some of the adoption services for parents who adopt helpful in finding future employment. barriers to successful adoptions in the children from foster care? My office and I benefited from the help United States? provided by these talented young people. CRAIG: I know post-adoption services often More important, I valued the opportunities CRAIG: Recent research reports confirm that are needed in these cases, and states already to talk frankly with them about the foster the complexity of the adoption process is are using federal funds to provide such ser- care experience. one of the foremost barriers. I also hear vices. Congress may well consider whether from adoptive parents that they encoun- to provide more direct assistance in this area. LANDRIEU: The internship program changes tered obstacles because of differences among their lives. They are empowered. They have state adoption laws. LANDRIEU: I believe the federal government a story to tell, and the program helps them is moving toward increased support money to see that they have a future and that they LANDRIEU: One barrier is the lack of under- for post-adoption services, with the money have something valuable to offer. It truly is standing about the need for people to come following the children. Federal funds should transformative. forward and adopt. Every child deserves a accompany the child based on whatever deci- family. We would like for adoption to be sion is rendered by the court on placement, VOICE: How can we help ensure that every seen as a normal process, and I think we are regardless of the income of the parents. child has a lifelong connection to a family working toward that end. Each parent in – what we call “permanency”? America should understand that he or she VOICE: You’ve had the opportunity to work does not have to be a perfect parent. Just with a youth from foster care through the CRAIG: Sometimes permanency can be as showing love and respect to one’s children is institute’s Youth Internship Program, simple as asking people to make the com- the best gift a parent can offer. Children are which the Annie E. Casey Foundation has mitment. Through the internship program, the most valuable investment we can make supported. How was that experience – for in our country, and adoption is one way to you and for the interns? make our reward even greater.

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FOUNDATION RESPONDS TO HURRICANE DISASTER

In the wake of the one-two punch by the Casey Strategic Consulting Group. “In The Annie E. Casey Foundation is engaging Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in America’s Louisiana and Mississippi, where child in discussions with leaders of both child Gulf Coast region, the Annie E. Casey poverty rates are the second and third welfare and juvenile justice systems to deter- Foundation, including Casey Family highest in the nation, the disaster will tip mine the best ways to proceed with aid. Services, has responded with a multi-faceted many poor children and families in the The Foundation is exploring the potential approach designed to help now and in the region even further into crisis,” she adds. to assist in developing recruitment and long term. “Children already in the public systems are training strategies for staff and foster parents especially vulnerable. Within the context of alike. In addition, to help families at risk of According to Senior Vice President Ralph the larger problems facing the region, the losing their children to state custody, the Smith, the Foundation’s strategy has evolved needs of children in state custody could be Foundation is assessing its capacity to help into five important and related efforts: easily overlooked.” design crisis intervention services, including Children in Care: Helping the affected training and support systems, and to estab- states and localities respond to the chal- lish a flexible emergency fund targeted to lenges facing those children already in the IN NEW ORLEANS ALONE, fragile families. Efforts are being made to child welfare and juvenile justice systems help in reducing low-risk and low-level and those who will come into care as a MORE THAN 2,000 CHILDREN juvenile justice cases as well. result of the disaster. WERE IN FOSTER CARE AT “This crisis is without precedent in the Citizenship: Helping to guide and match THE TIME OF THE STORMS, United States,” says Smith. “Although the leaders of the child welfare and juvenile jus- individual contributions by Casey staff AND OVER 350 WERE IN throughout the country. tice systems are working hard to develop THE CARE OF THE JUVENILE plans and marshal resources to deal with Extended Family: Exploring ways to help these problems, they will need sustained staff, grantees, and consultants in the region JUSTICE SYSTEM. help. Every displaced child in care must be who have been affected directly. found, the temporary living circumstances evaluated, and plans made for ongoing Relocation: Playing a constructive support- In New Orleans alone, more than 2,000 monitoring of their well-being. This will ing role with respect to displaced families children were in foster care at the time of require extraordinary cooperation among who are being relocated to cities in which the storms, and over 350 were in the care of agencies in several states.” the Foundation plays a role. the juvenile justice system. Every one of The Foundation will continue to help mini- Recovery and Restoration: Working those children had to be evacuated to institutions and programs in other parts of the mize the number of children removed from through the Foundation’s Living Cities ini- birth and kin families due to poverty and tiative to frame, support, and advocate an state or in nearby states, according to Feeley. Because there was no uniform evacuation housing crises not only in this disaster but approach to the recovery and restoration for the future. planning that commits to meaningful system, for weeks hundreds of foster chil- engagement of and real benefits for low- dren remained unaccounted for. Although In the process, it is hoped that valuable income residents. most have been located since, concerns lessons will be learned for restoring hope remain that their foster families may not be and opportunity to literally millions of oth- “Hurricane Katrina devastated children and able to continue to care for them. In a simi- ers who, like the families of the Gulf Coast, families from two of our poorest states in lar state of uncertainty, the youth in deten- hover near the brink of disaster every day. some of the poorest areas within those tion have been scattered throughout states,” observes Kathleen Feeley, director of Louisiana, cut off from family and left without knowledge of their fates.

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Exchange GRANDRALLY 2005: CALLING ON CONGRESS TO SUPPORT GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDKIDS

More than 500 grandparents and other relative caregivers from across the nation gathered recently to deliver a singular message to Congress: “We need help.” These heads of household converged on Capitol Hill for the nation’s second GrandRally on Sep- tember 14, 2005, urging lawmakers to recognize and support them in keeping their families together and their children safe. Across the country, more than six million children – one in 12 – are living in house- holds headed by grandparents and other relatives. Of those, two in ﬁve children are in homes without either mother or father present, according to the Children’s Defense Fund. Family members are stepping forward to provide safe and loving homes for these children because their parents are unable to do so as a result of substance abuse, serious health and mental health (Top): Senator Hillary Clinton offers support to “These kinship relationships, as well as problems, domestic violence, incarceration, relative caregivers on the Capitol lawn during the guardianship, play an essential role in help- or death. GrandRally. ing children ﬁnd permanency,” says Sania Metzger, Esq., director of policy at Casey Grandparents, other relatives, and children (Above): Members of New Haven’s Grandparents on the Move with the Child Welfare League of Family Services. “Research suggests that traveled by plane, bus, train, and car from America’s Shay Bilchik. kinship care offers greater stability for child- about 40 states to attend the event. The ren who are living with their relatives. It is GrandRally provided these caregivers an “The stories shared at the GrandRally, in the best interest of children for Congress opportunity to share their concerns with to recognize the value of these placements.” each other and with members of Congress. and those of the millions of grandparents and other relatives raising children, power- According to Shay Bilchik, president and For Jessie, a grandmother from Connect- fully illustrate the fact that these families CEO of CWLA: “Congress can help assist icut, the challenge of making ends meet to often must struggle to get the supports and these caregivers in accessing the supports support her family is very stressful. “I came services they need for the children in their and services they need to perform their vital to Washington today to say that it’s not care,” states Marian Wright Edelman, responsibilities. We should not be asking right that there isn’t more help,” she says, founder and CEO of the Children’s Defense grandparents raising grandchildren to having attended the GrandRally with other Fund. choose between buying medicine for them- members of New Haven’s Grandparents selves or food for their children or ask an on the Move support group, whom Casey The event was sponsored jointly by AARP, the Children’s Defense Fund, the Child aunt raising nephews to have to take on a Family Services accompanied to Wash- second job in order to pay for child care, ington. After her son passed away, Jessie Welfare League of America (CWLA), Generations United, and the National but these are the compromises relative care- began to care for her two grandchildren, givers face every day.” supporting them on a tight budget. Committee on Grandparents for Children’s Rights.

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Exchange GREAT SUMMER JOBS FOR GREAT KIDS This summer, more than 50 kids from Casey Family Services’ Baltimore and Bridgeport divisions were earning and learning from their summer jobs. “In both of these cities, our kids rose to the occasion to make their summer jobs a successful experience,” says Casey Family Services Executive Director Raymond L. Torres. “We do everything we can to prepare and support these young workers and their employers, so it’s a win-win for everyone.”

Everybody into the Water plishment and a boost in confidence, self- vide, they were able to participate in the esteem, and pride from working.” program,” she says. “In addition to the When February rolls around, Kevin Amado, valuable work experience for the kids, we Jr. and Rosalind Wilkins of the Baltimore Succeeding on the job can be the key to are developing stronger partnerships with Division already are thinking about sum- succeeding in life, according to Wilkins. the community.” mer. They start encouraging teens who “One young man came to us when he had want to work to get their paperwork togeth- just been kicked out of his house,” she Casey Family Services in Bridgeport part- er to apply for a summer job. remembers. “We found him a safe place to nered with a number of agencies and stores stay and got him a job as a pool attendant. in the summer jobs program. For example, Partnering with the Baltimore Department He worked his way up to lifeguard, and this through a collaboration with the of Recreation, Amado and Wilkins help summer, he graduated from high school Department of Labor, teens had access to teens get jobs as attendants at the city and is headed to college. The job helped job listings and other resources. Casey held swimming pools. The program, which has him turn his life around.” a variety of courses and workshops to help grown steadily since 2001, placed 41 youth, teens prepare for everything from how to aged 14 and 15, this past summer. Life Skills and More dress to interviewing techniques. The teens Casey Family Services guides the teens This was the first year of the Bridgeport also were trained in CPR and First Aid and through the process. Staff member Patricia Division’s summer jobs program. Twelve did group work on filling out employment Smith generously donates her time to pro- young people, between the ages of 13 and applications. vide free training in CPR and First Aid. 20, participated in the program. “To plan this program, we asked ourselves, Before they start working, teens also partici- ‘What would our youth like to do?’ and pate in workshops to learn about saving “They all did an excellent job,” says Team then ‘What can they do?’ We worked with money and spending wisely. Leader Audra Holmes-Greene. “They learned about being part of the workforce. our young people to determine which job “It’s hard to get a job when you are 14 or Through this, they were able to see authori- they wanted, and then we went and found 15 years old, but these kids want to work so ty figures – especially adults giving direc- it for them,” says Holmes-Greene. “We they can bring some money into the tion, with whom they often have a problem knew some of the kids were going to have a house,” says Amado. “They really enjoy the – in a positive light.” real challenge. But we made a commitment feeling of making their own money. It’s to match their courage to be employed with amazing what a job can do for young peo- The employers enjoyed the experience, too. our best efforts.” ple. They get a tremendous sense of accom- “They wanted to give back to the community, and, because of the support we pro-

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News & Highlights

IT’S MY LIFE CONFERENCE 2OO5

Growing up is hard to do. The transition For the ﬁrst time in its three-year history, This year’s speakers include Regina Louise, into adulthood presents challenges for all the It’s My Life Conference will be offered author and child advocate; Josh Shipp, tele- young people, but for youth “aging out” of on the East Coast on November 14-15, vision show host, author, and motivational foster care, facing adulthood can be a fright- 2005, in Baltimore, Maryland. speaker; and Tony Shellman, co-founder of ening prospect. To support youth in suc- Enyce Clothing Company and a spokesman cessfully reaching independence, the Annie It’s My Life 2005 will bring together the for National Foster Care Month. “Each of E. Casey Foundation’s grant-making and nation’s leading child welfare professionals the speakers has transformed his or her per- direct service arms, along with Casey Family and advocates who will demonstrate sonal adversity into vibrant and successful Programs and the Jim Casey Youth promising practices in preparing foster lives,” says David Johnston, senior program Opportunities Initiative, joined in a collab- youth for adulthood. associate for life skills with Casey Family orative effort beginning in 2003. The result The conference will include more than 50 Services. “Their individual stories contain was the ﬁrst annual national conference – workshops, panels, and other sessions for powerful and profound messages that are It’s My Life – focusing on key issues that the 600 expected participants. Offerings sure to resonate with the youth in atten- affect youth moving out of foster care or will address the needs of youth facing tran- dance.” other substitute care. sition, those in the process of transitioning, and those already living independently.

BLENDING APPROACHES TO YOUTH TRANSITION WITH PERMANENCE

“Regardless of age, race, or cultural background, the Casey Center for Effective Child 3) Customize planning and decision special need, or complex circumstance, all Welfare Practice in collaboration with the making to be youth centered and family youth need and deserve a family to count on California Permanency for Youth Project, focused. for a lifetime, and all youth need and deserve Casey Family Programs, and the Jim Casey to be adequately prepared to face the adult Youth Opportunities Initiative, all sponsors 4) Ensure comprehensive, continuous, world.” of the Convening, along with the Dave customized, and collaborative services for Thomas, Peninsular and Stuart foundations. youth and families. –From “A Call to Action: An Integrated Approach to Youth Permanency and The guide, “A Call to Action: An Integrated 5) Promote a vision of shared responsibility Preparation for Adulthood” Approach to Youth Permanency and for change. Preparation for Adulthood,” sets forth five Close to 200 experts from across the coun- Convening participants recognized that a principles essential to a holistic and inte- broad array of individualized permanency try gathered in San Francisco this past grated approach: spring to strengthen practice and policy options for youth exists, including reunifi- ensuring permanency for older children and 1) Embrace sound definitions of permanen- cation with birth parents, guardianship, and youth. The event, the National Convening cy and preparation for adulthood and a adoption. The Casey Center will host the on Youth Permanence, coincided with the comprehensive approach to outcomes. 2006 National Convening on Youth release of a new guide to youth permanency Permanence, set for September 2006 in and preparation for adulthood developed by 2) Blend youth-related policies and prac- Washington, D.C. tices into the process of integrating customized permanency outcomes and comprehensive preparation for adulthood.

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News & Highlights

Casey’s Baltimore Division appoints a new director to oversee its efforts

to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable children and

families in the historic East Baltimore community.

DEDRA LAYNE NAMED BALTIMORE DIVISION DIRECTOR

Casey Family Services short-term counseling, and intensive family assuring quality services for clients who recently named DedraNewspreservation services. These offerings are were homeless and severely mentally ill. In Layne, a seasoned human helpful to disadvantaged, single adolescents her 17-year career, she has offered intensive services professional and and other young parents to avoid out-of- outpatient mental health services and case lifelong Baltimorean, to home placement for their children. In addi- management with the Assertive Community take the helm of the orga- tion, Layne is leading the development of Treatment Team at the University of Mary- nization’s Baltimore the division’s foster care program for teen land Medical System in Baltimore. At Mt. Division. In her capacity as division direc- mothers and their babies. Over the past Carmel Place in Washington, D.C., she tor, Layne oversees a staff of 26 working to year, the division has been working closely provided live-in support and training for make a tangible difference in the lives of with the grant-making arm of the Annie E. women who were homeless and pregnant. vulnerable children and families in the his- Casey Foundation on its overall redevelop- toric East Baltimore community. ment strategy for East Baltimore. Layne holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland at Baltimore Casey Family Services operates a family Prior to joining Casey, Layne served as pro- and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from resource center within the division to program director for Safe Haven of Baltimore Coppin State University. Layne and her vide parent training and crisis intervention from 2002 to 2005 and as the agency’s pro- husband are the parents of a 12-year-old for young families, home-based day care, gram coordinator from 1996 to 2002, daughter.

CONNECTICUT MOVES TO BOLSTER ITS CHILDREN’S COURTS

After successfully piloting a regional probate “The families feel that they are a part of the court dedicated to children’s issues in the process and, therefore, that their input is New Haven region, Connecticut lawmakers valued in determining their futures,” says recently moved to expand the state’s judicial Forgione. reform initiative. Enacting recommenda- tions initially made by Casey Family The Children’s Court has handled 1,855 Services in a 2003 study of Connecticut’s children’s matters during its ﬁrst year of probate court system, the state is directing operation. vital resources to issues that impact youth “Through our direct work with families, we permanency. knew the courts could do better for children,” says Raymond L. Torres, executive The Children’s Court – administered by In addition to establishing a permanent role Judge Frank Forgione – is responsible for director of Casey Family Services. “Judge of the court’s pilot project in New Haven, Forgione has been a wonderful advocate for cases involving temporary custody, the legislature has authorized six additional guardianship, the termination of parental children during this pilot project, and we regional children’s courts throughout the are pleased that children and families in rights, adoptions, paternity, emancipation, state within the probate system. and voluntary admissions. other parts of the state will beneﬁt from a According to Judge Forgione, the court court system that is more responsive to their A small team of court-dedicated social holds family conferences at the outset of unique needs.” workers join with families to help connect each case in order to determine which types parents and children with community of services are needed. This tailored process resources and treatment options. includes input from the family members.

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News & Highlights “Let there be PEACE...”

A Proﬁle of Kyra Turner

by Gregory Simpson, Case Information System Caption to come Administrator, Casey Family Services “To whom much is given, much is required,” explains Kyra Turner on why she joined the Peace Corps before coming to Casey Family Services’ Bridgeport Division as a foster care social worker in 2004. “I always wanted to do some international work. The Peace Corps teaches you professional skills and gives you the opportunity Kyra Turner, a social worker in Casey Family learning how to pack. When I first went to to learn a new culture and language and to Services, joins local villagers during her Peace Togo, I took two huge suitcases with Corps tour in West Africa. meet new people.” expandable tops. Now I can travel with a knapsack.” After meeting her induction group in uniforms, and food. But that is a lot of Atlanta, Georgia, Turner headed to West money to them. Turner sees parallels between the Peace Africa with 30 women, the first all-female Corps and Casey. “Advocacy runs through- Peace Corps contingent to Togo. There she Part of Turner’s empowerment work out. You need to teach people how to use participated in two months of training on involved conducting an after-school group their own voices. We don’t empower people the culture and language. French is the for young women twice weekly. She reports – people empower themselves.” Also similar common Togo language so Turner took that sexual harassment of female students is the need to “take people as they are and French classes. Citing this as the biggest by teachers is not uncommon, with com- get to know them as individuals rather than challenge, she said she had to “learn how to plaints either ignored or handled by sending as a group.” cope with not being understood.” the teacher to another village where the pat- tern of sexual harassment continues. Back home, Turner is involved in recruit- Turner experienced many adjustments, ment as part of the Peace Corps Volunteers including the heat (“It was 105-110 degrees The opportunity to tour Africa during her of Connecticut, addressing church and most of the time”) and the food (“I had to breaks was a bonus. Turner visited South school groups about the sacrifices and get used to eating mostly rice, fish, and Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Benin, and rewards of the two-year experience. beans”). These discomforts were more than Burkina Faso. She returned to West Africa Turner maintains close to a dozen relation- made up for by the beautiful mountainous in December 2004 and again in May of this ships in Togo through letters, email, and landscape and the outgoing and warm peo- year, taking with her donations for a girl’s phone. The most important relationship ple she met. “They don’t have much to give, scholarship fund as well as medical and Turner made, however, was not arranged by but they share what they have.” educational supplies. The Peace Corps “has ignited a flame in me,” says Turner, who the Peace Corps. She became engaged to a Turner’s assignment focused on promoting now is in charge of her church’s internation- Togolese man named Francis, whom she education and empowerment for young al mission. met through the organization for which women, mostly ages 14 to 21. “In Togo, they both worked. Their wedding is set for education is not free, and parents prefer to “The best part of the Peace Corps experi- the day after Thanksgiving. send boys to school, believing girls would ence was learning more about myself – Summing up her feelings about finding not use the education.” The cost to send a about who I am when I’m not where I’m Togo and Casey, Turner says, “I don’t think youth to school for a year is equivalent to most comfortable. I learned how to use my things happen by accident. I was really, real- $30, including tuition, books, supplies, voice more and speak out.” She laughs and adds, “But my biggest accomplishment was ly fortunate.”

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Perspectives Engaging the Human Spirit in Permanency Work

View from

byWashington Robin Nixon, Executive Director, National Foster Care Coalition At the recent Growing Pains Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, I was exhilarated by the energy and passionate voices of the hundreds of young people and youth workers, yet was anxious about the safety and well-being of family members and others living in the path of Hurricane Rita. I could hardly help but think a lot about permanence over those few days. I wondered about different people’s percep- tion of permanence, about the fragility and elusive nature of permanence for all of us, whether in terms of family, or of our own existence here on spaceship Earth. Jaiya John, one of the keynote speakers at THE CHILD WELFARE COMMUNITY HAS BECOME MUCH MORE the conference and an author and poet of AWARE IN RECENT YEARS OF OUR NEED FOR DIALOGUE WITH mind-boggling talent, read a poem he had written the morning of his speech. It was a YOUNG PEOPLE ABOUT THEIR DREAMS, DESIRES, AND UNDER- song of struggle and pain, a life story tied STANDING OF PERMANENCY, SAFETY, AND WELL-BEING. together with chains of tragedy and bright ribbons of hope. He spoke of his own adoption as the creation of family and stability. But it also was the greatest threat to his us. He professed that a young person who milestones for permanency within the con- sense of self as a person of color in a white goes out into the world believing that he text of demanding child welfare standards family and community. He said that efforts or she is beautiful and has a place is a and policies. These guidelines often do not to help youth ﬁnd a path to successful young person capable of independence accommodate themselves very well to our adulthood must be as much about honoring and interdependence. understanding of the emotional and spiritu- al aspects of permanency as voiced by John and nurturing a youth’s sense of belonging The child welfare community has become as it is about learning skills. He emphasized and others. Increasing the number of adop- much more aware in recent years of our tions for children and youth in foster care that we must think about our work and our need for dialogue with young people about role as not just sharing knowledge and may feel like a hollow victory if the very their dreams, desires, and understanding children and youth we serve are unable to experience but also as being open to, and of permanency, safety, and well-being. We receiving the gift of the internal and spiritu- ﬁnd beauty and belonging along their life’s have seen increased and genuine efforts to journey. al beauty that each child and youth offers engage youth in planning and decision making and to celebrate individuality and differences of race and culture. At the same time, we continue to struggle to achieve

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Perspectives The Clinical Connection: Understanding PERSPECTIVESEvidence-Based Practice

by Eliot Brenner, Ph.D., The Substance Abuse and Mental Health To categorize the evidence supporting dif- Director of Clinical Services, Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) ferent psychological treatments, the Casey Family Services National Registry of Evidence-Based American Psychological Association uses Programs and Practices evaluates the effica- expert psychologists and a three-tiered sys- In recent years, there has cy of community, school, mental health, tem: well-established, probably efficacious, been a growing emphasis and social services programs. SAMHSA has or possibly efficacious. Well-established on demonstrating the effec- doctoral-level scientists select and rate pro- treatments are the most rigorous of the tiveness of mental health and child welfare grams using strict methodological criteria. three and are supported by at least two ran- services. Not surprisingly, consumers, regu- Based on their ratings, SAMHSA catego- domized clinical trials with control groups. lators, and funders want to ensure that chil- rizes programs as model, effective, or For example, parent training programs are a dren receive the most effective interventions promising. Model programs are those that well-established treatment for children with available. The term evidence-based practice oppositional behavior. Last year, Casey is used to describe an array of effective Family Services invited Alan Kazdin, Ph.D., interventions that are supported by scientif- ONE WAY TO UNDERSTAND an expert in parent training with the Yale ic research. Child Study Center, to conduct a workshop One way to understand evidence-based EVIDENCE-BASED INTERVEN- on this treatment. interventions is to assess the quality of TIONS IS TO ASSESS THE The Child Welfare League of America research that supports them. The gold stan- QUALITY OF RESEARCH. THE (CWLA) has a two-tiered system (high level dard for evaluating scientific research is the of evidence, medium level of evidence) for randomized clinical trial, which derives GOLD STANDARD IS THE evaluating research for different interven- from the field of medicine. Researchers in RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL, tions. CWLA examines the evidence related clinical trials randomly assign participants to timely reunification, permanency after to treatment conditions. For example, par- WHICH DERIVES FROM THE leaving care, timely adoption, placement ticipants in a medication study might FIELD OF MEDICINE. stability, maltreatment recurrence, and safe- receive a target medication or a placebo. In ty in care. CWLA further categorizes evi- a double-blind trial, neither the participant dence. For example, factors improving the nor the doctor knows which participants are timeliness of reunification are as follows: receiving the target medication and which have the greatest degree of scientific sup- are receiving the placebo. port. The SAMHSA website allows users • Including extended family members in the to search for programs using a range of child’s permanency planning. When evaluating evidence that supports criteria. A user can search by content area interventions in mental health and child (for example, treatment of trauma), target • Providing intensive services (at least three welfare, it usually is not possible to conduct population (for example, age or ethnicity), times per week). double-blind studies. However, it still is or setting (for example, rural or urban). possible to be scientifically rigorous. A To illustrate, the SAMHSA website, • Offering flexible funding. number of government agencies and profes- modelprograms.samsha.gov, indicates that a • Making available community services such sional organizations have systems for evalu- model treatment for children who have as substance abuse treatment. ating the quality of evidence for interven- been victims of sexual abuse and are suffer- tions in mental health and child welfare. ing from post-traumatic stress disorder is By documenting the success of our prac- Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment for child- tices, we are ensuring positive outcomes for hood sexual abuse. children, which is always best practice.

Casey Family Services 14 Perspectives

POLICY CORNER

LESSONS FROM NEW ORLEANS ON THE HIGH COST OF BEING POOR

by Sania Metzger, Esq., As the national political debate heightened was spent on preventive services. In 2004, Director of Policy, Casey by Hurricane Katrina continues to gain in federal spending, according to the Family Services volume and intensity, a recurring goal and Congressional Budget Office, highlighted theme of policymakers must be the expan- the philosophical imbalance when $4.8 bil- “ Within the Gulf region are sion and development of preventive strate- lion was spent on foster care, $1.6 billion some of the most beautiful gies and services to maximize a family’s abil- on adoption assistance, and $463 million and historic places in Ameri- ity to handle its own family crisis. on preventive services. ca. As all of us saw on television, there’s also some deep, persistent poverty in the region as Urgent policy discussions and recommenda- Listen to parent voices: Parents most at risk well. The poverty has roots in a history of racial tions are needed to do the following: of involvement with child welfare, as well as discrimination, which cut off generations from those whose children have been placed in the opportunity of America. We have a duty to Narrow the definition of child abuse and out-of-home care, must be meaningfully confront this poverty with bold action.” neglect: Policymakers should consider nar- involved in all decisions related to their chil- – U.S. President George W. Bush rowing child neglect policies to require mis- dren. Parents also must receive timely and conduct on the part of the custodial parent adequate legal representation and given It seems the events that unfolded in the against a child and to exclude those circum- opportunities to identify and shape policy Gulf region following Hurricane Katrina stances that develop because the family is issues and solutions impacting their lives. were a wake-up call to the nation. As one living without sufficient resources. Inno- New York Times reader critically observed on vative policies with demonstrated success, A Silver Lining? September 11, 2005: “I was surprised to such as dual track and differential response learn of the poverty conditions that pre- systems, provide direction on how to better After several heart-wrenching days of watch- vailed in New Orleans. … Why didn’t the serve more vulnerable families. ing the people of the Gulf region, especially economic-social-racial conditions get some New Orleans’ most vulnerable residents – attention in the paper prior to the hurri- Provide economic opportunities: Community the working poor, the disabled, the old, the cane?” While low on the national radar, leaders must establish an array of economic young, and people of color – suffer New Orleans has long struggled with issues supports, including job opportunities at a unspeakable indignities wrought by of class and race. living wage that provide health and pension Hurricane Katrina (the flood surge, the plans, access to consumer-friendly banking inadequate levee system, the failure of gov- Part of the answer to why these conditions services, a fair tax structure, and incentives ernments, and the incompetence of the were not more central to the national dia- to save toward home ownership and other Federal Emergency Management Agency), logue may be found in an excerpt from asset-building initiatives. According to the notion of a silver lining seemed absurd. Andrew Billingsley and Jeanne Giovannoni’s Westat’s Dr. Robert Hill, such “family But it actually was during this difficult time Children of the Storm, Black Children and strengthening welfare policies” can reduce that a silver lining appeared in the faces of American Child Welfare: “The underlying racial and ethnic disproportionality as they the caregivers – the parents, the grandpar- philosophy of the present child welfare enhance the social and economic status of ents, aunts, uncles, cousins, neighbors, and system is that all families should be able families struggling to rise up from genera- even the youngest of siblings. One could see to function adequately without the assis- tional poverty. their resolve, their determination to survive tance of society and that failure to perform and to maintain their families in the the parental role without such assistance Increase preventive services: Federal efforts for process. What emerged was a true and accu- is indicative of individual pathology.” in-home services that support, preserve, and rate picture of economically marginalized Although made in the child welfare context stabilize reunited and new families should people telling their own stories, asserting nearly three decades ago, the authors’ per- match state and local needs. In fiscal year their humanity, and – in the process, it is spective has enormous relevance for the 2000, a mere five percent of federal funding hoped – reminding each of us of our own. treatment of today’s working poor.

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Research Dialogue WHAT IS … PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN IN RESEARCH

DIALOGUESharing Perspectives on Research, Practice and Policy by Carol Ripple, Ph.D., Senior Research address policy and practice and moral • Confidentiality assurances may describe Associate, and Ben Kerman, Ph.D., Director obligations and cover topics such as confi- security provisions (e.g., keeping data of Research, Casey Family Services dentiality and consent. locked up or encrypted), use of ID num- bers instead of names, and computer sys- The revelation that foster children had been • Federal and state laws establish the condi- tem protection. Researchers typically must included in HIV/AIDS drug trials exploded tions under which children and adults state with whom and when they will and in the media in the spring of 2005, and the may be recruited for research purposes. will not share information. reports were met with outrage. Federally funded researchers had recruited 13,878 • Internal Review Boards (IRB) are com- • Safety monitoring describes the steps that children to test treatment approaches in the posed of people from a range of disci- will be taken to assure participant’s safety, ’80s and ’90s, five percent to 10 percent of plines and backgrounds. Housed in hospi- such as dealing with problems that could whom were in foster care. Critics claimed tals, universities, or other institutions seek- arise and steps taken to reduce risks. that foster children – most of whom were ing to ensure the protection of human minorities from poor families – were treat- subjects, they review research plans for Our Role in Protection ed as “guinea pigs.” participant protections, scientific merit, and potential research benefits. Even with protections in place, the rights Researchers staunchly defended the benefits and well-being of children may be at risk. of the trials. Testifying in hearings before These mechanisms apply most clearly to Research suggests that many IRBs are the 109th Congress, Dr. Stephen Spector research supported by federal or state funds overwhelmed. Conflicts of interest can claimed that the successful treatment of and to studies intended to produce general- threaten independent review, and resources children demonstrated the benefits. He izable knowledge. Agencies conducting to police IRBs are limited. Guidelines for added that “denying children in foster care internal program evaluation may be exempt protection vary from state to state, and few an opportunity to benefit from such treat- from some of the requirements, though real-life situations are so clear cut that there ments would be medically unacceptable and they remain ethically and legally responsible isn’t room for interpretation. to protect the welfare of their participants. morally reprehensible.” Protections for foster children did exist dur- Whether or not we agree that the trials were Components of Protection ing the HIV/AIDS trials. Moreover, pres- justified, those of us concerned with chil- sure from some child advocates to include Four main components are central to pro- them in trials was intense, given the limited dren’s rights and well-being are challenged tecting human study participants: by the issues raised. Omitting foster chil- treatment options at the time. Still, the sub- dren from clinical trials denies them poten- • Informed consent must be signed by parti- sequent uproar demonstrates the sensitivity tial benefits and restricts the understanding cipants or by parents or guardians of of using vulnerable children in research. of how to best treat the most vulnerable participants under age 18. Federal law Even when there are protections for young children. At the same time, protections and requires a children’s advocate in some research participants, concerned adults rigorous oversight are essential. studies. should be vigilant. Knowing the types of Assurances of Protection • A statement of risk/benefits is part of the assurances and components of protection consent document. This spells out any helps us to ask the right questions when a There are three main sources of protection potential risks associated with participat- child is eligible to be a research participant. for all human research participants: ing (e.g., experiencing side effects from Are the protections adequate? Will they be enforced? As long as research requires • Ethical codes are designed for professionals, medications) as well as benefits to the individual participant (e.g., feeling better) engaging human subjects, caring adults will including social workers, and are provided need to make sure that children’s rights are by several associations. These guidelines and to the broader population (e.g., finding a cure). adequately protected.

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Research Dialogue The Quality Service Review Results Inform Post-Adoption Services Development

by Ray Foster, Ph.D., and Linda Radigan, Building on the experiences of its six PAS produce graphic patterns that helped the Ph.D., Human Systems and Outcomes, Inc.; sites, Casey Family Services pioneered the review team and local participants find and and Ben Kerman, Ph.D., Director of development of best practice approaches for discuss status and performance patterns. Research, Casey Family Services supporting adoptive families. Its white These themes were further explored in light paper, “Strengthening Families and of key informant responses to affirm good In 2002, Casey Family Services commenced a Communities: An Approach to Post- results and effective approaches, as well as multi-site Quality Service Review (QSR) pro- Adoption Services,” proposed that PAS pro- point to areas that may benefit from further gram evaluation of its Post-Adoption Services grams should endeavor to supplement, refinement. The QSR team produced a (PAS). The goals for this QSR were to sup- rather than supplant, those services that are, summary of the strengths and needs of port a reflective approach to local practice or should be, locally available, adding adop- families being served, describing the chal- development and to help the organization’s tion-competent resources to an already lenges facing frontline PAS practitioners administration identify options for agency- functioning local system of care. and identifying further options for program wide program development and support. development. QSR Promotes Reflective Practice Since Casey Family Services established its Flexible PAS Approach Affirmed first PAS program in 1991 in Bridgeport Casey Family Services retained Human and Hartford, Connecticut, the agency has Systems and Outcomes, Inc. to implement Overall, families were seen as making amassed considerable experience serving this particular QSR, which involved a par- progress in achieving their goals, according adoptive families. Since then, additional ticipatory evaluation process involving mul- to the QSR. Professional collaterals and ser- PAS teams were established in other Casey tiple case reviews and focus groups. vice participants appreciated Casey’s pro- divisions: Maine, New Hampshire, and grams and saw its flexible and quality ser- Rhode Island. Each site varies in its local Conducted by a team of qualified, indepen- vices as valuable parts of the local system of operating style, service mix, and staffing. dent reviewers who spent one week at each care. Community providers identified their However, each site supports, strengthens, site, the reviews were completed in May Casey partners as integral to stimulating and preserves adoptive families; endeavors 2005. Focus group findings and interviews interest in early and competent supports for to increase awareness of adoption-related with stakeholders were woven together to adoptive families. A significant and consis- issues; and enhances the capacity of service provide an interpretative context for local tent strength across all sites was the high- providers to meet the unique needs of adop- performance and to identify additional satisfaction level among parents and profes- tive families. options for program development. Across sional partners. Most parents were con- all sites, a broad and diverse group of con- vinced that the support of their Casey Casey’s contributions to the field of adop- sumers and other service providers offered Family Services division was vital to their tion-competent practice have been timely in input. A total of 56 families participated family’s past and ongoing successes. terms of two key changes in federal policy. voluntarily in the QSR process. Thirty-eight Referring professionals felt confident that The Promoting Safe and Stable Families focus groups were conducted, involving 284 their families would be creatively and tire- Act, amended in 1993, required states to stakeholders. lessly supported by the organization. apportion 20 percent of their grant funds to post-adoption services. At the time, com- Applying QSR Findings Reflecting Casey’s desire to supplement munities around the country had a dearth The value of the QSR rests in the way in local capacities, the agency’s PAS model var- of adoption-competent professionals. Then, which this rich feedback from the individ- ied across its sites in several important ways in 1997, Congress passed the Adoption and ual evaluations is used to facilitate learning to reflect both division assets and local Safe Families Act that tightened time limits and inform program development across needs and to shape potential areas for for child welfare systems to help children the organization. Individual case review administrative supports. Some divisions achieve permanency. findings were aggregated within each site to used clinical models that emphasized

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Research Dialogue THE QUALITY SERVICE REVIEW RESULTS INFORM POST-ADOPTION SERVICES DEVELOPMENT

individual and group therapy as primary PAS Incorporates a Variety of Successful Roles and Activities modes of intervention. Some sites focused on office-based counseling while others pro- Providing direct services Facilitating services Strengthening local system of care vided a combination of office- and home- Assessment and planning Case managing Training based treatment. Several sites used a case Outreach and clinic-based Case coordinating Consulting management model of service, though this counseling typically was seen as a means to develop a Support groups Flexible gap filling Convening therapeutic relationship. Some divisions Crisis responding Preventive services emphasized more integrated, interagency teaming while others tended to work independently. QSR Highlights Questions for Ongoing Program Development What is Casey’s role in filling system gaps? What do Casey teams need in order to succeed? All sites were engaged in a system of care development and capacity building at the Clear and consistent role definition Procedures that support defined role state or local level. However, the scope of Direct and indirect service role Practice tools these activities varied significantly. Advanced training Expert consultation Other valued service components included: parent support groups; flexible service pro- Gaps in the service system continue to face In other locations, ideas for potential com- vision; and talented, respectful staff. For families who have adopted. In some sites, munity activities or partnerships emerged. instance, each site offered parent education there is a glaring need for respite services. In For example, one group of state agency that was highly rated by families served. other divisions, practitioners face a dearth stakeholders identified a new interest in Parents everywhere enjoyed and gained of child psychiatric resources or adoption- the program’s early intervention services. from the peer learning and support that competent collaborators. The essential chal- came from these educational events. lenge for further developing PAS is to clari- For the next step, agencywide action plan- fy the agency’s role in a system and to devel- ning can mine the findings to design an Turning Practice Challenges into ongoing support plan that promotes indi- Improvement Plans op the supports and tools needed to succeed in this refined role. vidual program development and helps Consistent cross-site themes suggested a achieve goals for further outcome measure- variety of additional program development As a result of the QSR, action plans were ment, dissemination of effective approaches, options. One such theme, the ebb and flow tailored to local conditions. The evolving and enrichment of technical assistance. In of families’ needs for support, is well known definition of each program’s role in its own light of the successes of the PAS flexible to the PAS teams. Some sites have been system of care helps to direct intake para- service approach, administrative supports developing new ways of meeting the needs meters, resource allocation, clinical prac- must strike a delicate balance. To the extent of families and preserving the supportive tices, and administrative procedures. Teams that model consistency, coordinated relationships through short-term active ser- reflected on their program models and goals response, and practice standardization help vice episodes, interspersed with variable and examined whether their practice tools accomplish agencywide goals, enhanced periods of low-intensity support or lifeline and procedures provided optimal support oversight and goal-directed exchange across services. Looking forward, the programs for their goal-directed activities. Specific sites may be useful. At the same time, local will continue to refine their use of practice assessment and planning tool ideas were autonomy facilitates flexible and creative tools and documentation procedures to sup- explored according to the types of chal- response to emerging system needs and port best practice. lenges faced. In several sites, interest in practice conditions. additional training sparked follow-up plans.

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Resource Corner Resource Reviews Corner

The National Adoption Day Website ed in this breakthrough series collaborative on recruitment and retention, sponsored by On National Adoption Day 2005 – Casey Family Programs. Saturday, November 19 – an unprecedented number of courts and community organiza- 2005 KIDS COUNT Data Book For more information, visit www.casey.org. tions coast to coast will come together to ﬁnalize thousands of adoptions of children The Annie E. Casey Foundation released Inspire Foster Youth from foster care and to celebrate all families the 16th Annual KIDS COUNT Data Book Young adults and teens will be inspired by who adopt. The National Adoption Day on July 27, 2005. This comprehensive The Winners – 100 Prize-Winning Essays by website, www.nationaladoptionday.org, report is a national and statewide effort to Teens in Foster Care. This book, edited by offers a host of resources for individuals, fam- track the status of children in the United Youth Communication, is a collection of ilies, and communities to use in discovering States. It offers state-by-state tracking, sup- short essays that model positive behavior and developing local celebrations of adop- plemental data, and the essay, “Helping and attitudes by those in foster care. tions. In addition, you can register an event Our Most Vulnerable Families Overcome Themes include “How I’ve Helped Others” in your area on the website. Barriers to Work and Achieve Financial Success.” This year’s report indicates that and “How I’ve Been Helped” plus “Four A Family for Every Child: Strategies to the trend of improved childhood outcomes Steps to Positive Change.” in the 1990s is being diminished by chronic Achieve Permanence for Older Foster To order the book, visit www.youthcomm.org. Children and Youth parental underemployment. The data book also underscores the fact that children from A Beginner’s Guide to Adoption The U.S. child welfare system faces serious poor families often lack the opportunities challenges that have been growing for more and assets that will enable them to become Have you considered adoption? Do you than a decade. In response, the Annie E. successful adults. As a result, these young have questions on the subject? Answer your Casey Foundation, in consultation with people frequently reach adulthood without questions with A Child Is Waiting: A community leaders and child welfare practi- the necessary tools, experiences, and con- Beginner’s Guide to Adoption. This informa- tioners nationwide, has developed a reform nections to succeed. tive publication from the Dave Thomas initiative called Family to Family. Written Foundation for Adoption answers general by the North American Council on For more information, visit www.aecf.org. questions for parents looking to grow their Adoptable Children, A Family for Every family through the process of adoption. Child: Strategies to Achieve Permanence for Breakthrough Series Collaborative: Older Foster Children and Youth is a user- Recruitment and Retention of Resource To receive a free copy, visit friendly guide to promising practices, poli- Families www.davethomasfoundationforadoption.org. cies, and strategies that compiles tools devel- In this 2005 report of the Breakthrough Parenting Wisely oped by the Family to Family initiative. Series Collaborative, teams from state, Parenting Wisely is an interactive CD- For more information, visit county, and tribe-administered child welfare ROM program designed for parents of pre- www.aecf.org/initiatives. agencies come together to conduct small- scale practice changes that are rapidly tested adolescents and adolescents (ages 8 to 18) and disseminated and that can lead to dra- to improve parenting knowledge and skills matic systemwide improvements in a short and to strengthen the relationship between time. This report illustrates the use of the youth and adult. methodology and describes the successful For more information, visit strategies and lessons learned by the 22 www.familyworksinc.com. public child welfare agencies that participat-

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What the Media Say

What thethe MediaMedia SaySay

“Aging Out” on Massachusetts Public Bluefish games and marched in the Puerto Television MediaRican Day Parade,” states John. Sam believes the league’s positive impact can be “There shouldn’t be a magic age at 18 for seen on various levels: “These kids walk ending or cutting benefits,” says Anita away from the game knowing that winning Marshall, social worker for Casey Family is exciting and fun, but it’s not everything.” Services. She says the Department of Social Services should change its policy of “aging El Canillita out” kids who don’t stay in school. Bridgeport, Connecticut August 2005 Department of Social Services Deputy Director Susan Getman admits the depart- Maine, among others. These agencies act as New Jersey Reforming Child ment could do a better job. “One of the a conduit to the program, identifying kids Welfare System things we have to reinforce is that young- who could use help getting a job. This sum- New Jersey’s difficulties in streamlining its sters can come back to the department and mer, more than 15 kids worked at places cumbersome adoption procedures for chil- ask for their involvement to be reconsid- like Hannaford Bros., the University of dren who are wards of the state were promi- ered,” she says. “However, young adults in Southern Maine, and Home Depot as part nently cited this week by a panel of experts foster care must realize they are not kids of the program. appointed to monitor the state’s reform of anymore and are responsible for their own The Portland Press Herald its child welfare system. A federal court actions.” Portland, Maine ordered the improvements in response to a A Tale of Two Brothers through the System July 2005 class-action lawsuit. … One principal fea- “Greater Boston with Emily Rooney” ture of the reform plan called for disman- WGBH-TV Little League Returns to Bridgeport, tling the state’s six Adoption Resource June 2005 Connecticut Centers (ARC), which were meant to speed adoptions for children. … Sarah Greenblatt, Experience that Pays John and Sam Torres wanted to memorial- ize their late father, Martin, in a way that director of the Casey Center for Effective Child Welfare Practice, part of [Casey “There can be plenty of barriers to getting a would impact children in their own Family Services], said that New Jersey had job if you’re a young person,” says Rob Bridgeport community. In 2004, the broth- been a leader when it created its ARCs Franciose, who oversees First Jobs, a pro- ers formed the Bridgeport Caribe Youth more than 20 years ago. The centers were gram that creates opportunities for people League, an organized sports program needed, she said, because caseworkers were with disabilities or who have an unstable designed to emphasize the same leadership too busy safeguarding neglected and abused home. The organization was made possible qualities their father instilled in them: com- children to focus on the adoption of foster over the last two years by a grant from the mitment, integrity, pride, and respect. children. The state’s new focus may yet suc- Annie E. Casey Foundation. First Jobs col- John and Sam are very pleased to have ceed, she said. “The one-child-one-worker laborates with Casey Family Services, Casey Family Services on board. “Because plan has a good chance of working if work- Sweetser, and Maine Youth Opportunities of Casey Family Services and other spon- ers are trained about what their role is and Initiative at the Muskie School of Public sors, we’ve been able to expand this pro- if they have the resources.” Service at the University of Southern gram and provide more outreach to the community. We’ve had field trips where The New York Times we’ve taken the kids to see the Bridgeport New York, New York October 2005

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Calendar

2005-2006: Important Dates 5 November November November200 14-15 November 19 4 National Adoption Month It’s My Life Conference National Adoption Day www.nationaladoptionday.org The Annie E. Casey Foundation/Casey www.nationaladoptionday.org Family Services, Casey Family Programs, and the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative 6 Baltimore, Maryland www.casey.org

November December November 20-26 December 7-10 December 12-14 National Family Week Annual Conference & Expo 2005 A National Forum Child Welfare www.nationalfamilyweek.org National Association for the Education of Conference Young Children “Keeping It Real” Washington Convention Center Action for Child Protection Washington, D.C. La Fonda Hotel www.annualconference.naeyc.org Santa Fe, New Mexico www.actionchildprotection.org February March February 27-March 1 March March 5-7 The Child Welfare League of America 2006 National Professional Social Work Month 2006 Black Administrators in Child Welfare National Conference National Association of Social Workers Conference “Children 2006: Securing Brighter Futures” Foundation “Building Partnerships to Serve African- Child Welfare League of America www.naswfoundation.org/ American Children and Families” Marriott Wardman Park Sheraton National Hotel Washington, D.C. Arlington, Virginia www.cwla.org www.blackadministrators.org March April March 20-23 April 1-4 April 2-5 Parents as Teachers 15th Annual 2006 Annual CASA Conference Annual Protecting our Children Conference Conference “Children: They’re Everybody’s Business” National Indian Child Welfare Association Parents as Teachers National Center Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) San Diego, California Renaissance Grand Hotel Town & Country Resort www.nicwa.org St. Louis, Missouri San Diego, California www.parentsasteachers.org www.casanet.org

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Contents

127 Church Street New Haven, CT 06510 Telephone: 203 401 6900 Fax: 203 401 6901

888 799 KIDS www.caseyfamilyservices.org InThis Issue

Voicei Executive Director’s Message 2 Exchange: National Adoption Day 2005 Those with Casey Connection Honored as Angels in Adoption

4 Casey Close-up: Jim Gannaway 5 Close-up: U.S. Senators Larry Craig and Mary Landrieu 7 Exchange: Casey Responds to Hurricane Disaster GrandRally 2005: Grandparents Raising Grandkids Great Summer Jobs for Great Kids

10 News & Highlights 13 Perspectives 16 Research Dialogue: What Is … Protection for Children in Research The Quality Service Review Results Inform Post-Adoption Services Development

19 Resource Corner 20 What the Media Say 21 2005-2006: Important Dates

Voice is published quarterly by Casey Family States. Started in 1976, Casey Family Services Executive Director: Raymond L. Torres Services for child welfare professionals, advocates, offers quality foster care, post-adoption services, Director of Communications: Lee Mullane and the children and families they serve. The opin- family reuniﬁcation, family preservation, family ions expressed within this publication do not neces- advocacy and support, family resource centers, assis- Public Affairs Manager/Managing Editor: sarily reﬂect the views of the Annie E. Casey tance to young families and families affected by Roye Anastasio-Bourke Foundation, including Casey Family Services. Casey HIV/AIDS, and technical assistance through the Writer/Editor: John Hodgins Family Services is the direct service arm of the Casey Center for Effective Child Welfare Practice. Contributing Writers: Eliot Brenner, Ray Foster, Annie E. Casey Foundation, a private charitable The mission of Casey Family Services is to improve Ben Kerman, Sania Metzger, Robin Nixon, Linda organization established in 1948 by UPS founder the lives of at-risk children and strengthen families Radigan, Carol Ripple, and Gregory Simpson Jim Casey and his siblings in honor of their mother. and communities by providing high-quality, cost- Design: Inergy Group The Foundation is dedicated to helping build better effective services that advance both positive practice futures for disadvantaged children in the United and sound public policy.

Casey Family Services