RESEARCH LIBRARY

We know many states and agencies still have lingering questions and concerns surrounding the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA), so we’ve rounded up several recent articles and resources to help you assess your options, plan for the best way to move forward, and navigate the impending change.

Editor’s note: we originally published this post on June 11, 2019. Since FFPSA officially goes into effect today (despite most states delaying implementation), we’ve updated it to include new resources.

Carole Hussey, associate manager in Public Consulting Group’s (PCG) Human Services practice, weighs in on the value of vertical domain specialty when evaluating new technology solutions for human services, posing five questions organizations should ask throughout the process.

When child welfare agencies need to convey the value of technology they want to purchase to county administrators and other stakeholders to secure funding and resources, focusing on time-savings and cost-savings isn’t enough. To tell the whole story, it’s imperative to demonstrate social return on investment (SROI) to prove how technology will impact the well-being of the whole community.

A new survey from Government Business Council says only 40% of respondents agree their organization’s transformation efforts meet their objectives. Conflicting priorities and a lack of coordination between departments is a barrier. Respondents also lack the right systems and technology to access the data they need to make decisions.

GovLoop’s guide includes case studies, research, and expert interviews that explore key technology trends shaping the future of state and local government.

A recent study from The Urban Institute and article from Route Fifty link supportive, permanent housing and other wraparound services to better child welfare outcomes, including increased reunification.

InnovateOhio, an initiative launched last year by Governor Mike DeWine and led by Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted, is another important step in Ohio’s journey toward citizen-centric services.

Wisconsin Counties magazine explores how the opioid epidemic is impacting the state's already fragile child welfare system, which one agency director referred to as a “sinking ship.” The article is a powerful reminder that frontline workers and supervisors need more support than ever before.

Child welfare is in an era of compliance-driven busywork, says The Chronicle of Social Change contributor Vivek Sankaran. Administrative work overshadows the human element of child welfare—the ability to really understand and empathize with each family and their unique situation.

New York’s “Raise the Age” legislation presents impactful changes to youth, their families, and agencies providing services. It also places an immediate and direct burden on frontline caseworkers tasked with developing tailored, comprehensive care plans that meet the rehabilitative needs of each youth. Critical to success is these workers’ ability to quickly assess, evaluate, and share specific information to coordinate the right supports and services.