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Edit this
OMB working on #s, targets,
special needs or not for
Goal
OMB working on definition
of program in Goal 2
Push HHS on other reg Des
HHS to begin drafting EO
Take to Carol
Talk to Gene ve costs
Check in w/ Bruce Reed
\
Tell Mac Reed this IS
coming
Boy Hoke (OPM)
606-1300
606-1344 (Fax)
ADOPTION
September 26, 1996
GOAL 1: Double the number of children who are adopted by setting targets for the
number of children that should be placed over the next three years.
ACTIONS:
1.
Help states that commit to meet these targets develop ways to help reach their goals
and measure their success.
2.
Give special commendations and hold White House events to recognize states that
meet targets.
3.
Give states financial bonuses if they reach or come within 5% of reaching annual
targets.
GOAL 2: Find permanent homes for waiting children within one year of entering the
child welfare system.
ACTIONS:
1.
Change law so that hearings used to determine whether a child should move from
foster care to adoption are held more frequently in order to shorten the amount of
time a child spends in foster care.
2.
Require adoption agencies to work toward finding children permanent homes at the
same time as they consider whether to reunify children with their birth families.
Today, agencies must first determine whether children should be returned to their
birth parents and then begin the process of finding adoptive parents. This causes
severe delays in finding permanent homes for waiting children.
3.
Give grants to states to identify barriers to adoption and to place children who have
been waiting particularly long times and those who are denied homes because there
are no families of the same race available.
GOAL 3: Increase public awareness about the benefits of adoption.
ACTIONS:
1.
Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to lead a public awareness effort,
including public service announcements, use of the internet and the appointment of
an advisory council made up of members of all sectors of the community.
2.
Direct the Secretary of the Treasury to disseminate information about adoption tax
benefits.
3.
Direct the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to promote adoption
among Federal employees and make the Federal government a model for adoption-
friendly work policies.
4.
Direct the Secretaries of Labor and Commerce to identify and recognize companies
that have instituted model adoption-friendly policies.
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
November 7, 1996
MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY
THE SECRETARY OF LABOR
THE SECRETARY OF COMMERCE
THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT
SUBJECT:
Steps to Improve the Child Welfare System
Today, there are 450,000 children in America in the foster care
system. Eight out of ten have special needs - - they are
disabled, older, have siblings who also need to be adopted, or
are minorities. On average, these children may wait as long as
worse
two years to be placed in a permanent home, and minority children
than
may wait twice as long.
ms
Caring adults are eager to offer permanent, loving homes to many
of these children. Yet families often face significant
obstacles, including complex regulations, prohibitive costs and
outdated assumptions.
or permanently placed
I believe we must do everything in our power to give these
waiting children what every child in America deserves - - loving
parents and a healthy, stable home. I believe we should work to
meet three goals. First, we should double the number of waiting
children who are adopted by the year [2002]. Second, we should
find permanent homes for waiting children within one year of
their entering the child welfare system. And third, we should
increase public awareness about the benefits of adoption.
Today, therefore, I direct the Secretaries of Health and Human
Services, Treasury, Labor and Commerce and the Director of the
Office of Personnel Management to take the following actions to
meet these three goals.
1.
To double the number of children in foster care adopted or
permanently placed by the year [2002]
Of the 450,000 children in the nation's foster care system, about
[......]
are legally free to be adopted and
[.......]
are waiting
for another permanent placement. We should work with states so
that [56,000 children are adopted or permanently placed out of
the public welfare system in the year 2002].
18,000-20,000
Within sixty days, the Secretary of Health and Human Services
will report to me on actions to be taken to double the number of
children in foster care who are adopted or permanently placed.
RACK
This report should include, but should not be limited to,
recommendations in the following areas:
adopted
8,000 perm. placed
Double both groups
(1)
Plans to work with states on setting and reaching state
specific numerical targets, through technical
assistance, initiatives to involve community leaders,
parents, the business and faith communities, and
national resource centers to make information on best
practices available to states. The details of the
technical assistance program should be included in my
budget submission to Congress this coming February.
(2)
[A financial per child bonus to states for each child
adopted from the child welfare system above the number
adopted in FY97 and a enhanced financial bonus per
child adopted above the state specified targets. The
BA= #3011/2002
details of this program should be included in my budget
submission to Congress this coming February.
(3) Compilation and publication of an annual state-by-state
report on success in meeting the numerical targets.
(4)
A strategy to recognize successful states.
2.
To reduce to one year the average time necessary to find
permanent homes for children in foster care
Current federal laws and regulations play a role in delaying
appropriate permanent placements for children in the child
welfare system. While the law requires that reasonable efforts
be made to prevent placement and to reunify families, there is no
comparable requirement to secure a permanent place for a child if
a decision is made that the child cannot return home. The law
should emphasize the importance of planning for permanency
both through adoption and alternatives such as guardianship or
kinship care. Barriers that needlessly keep children in foster
care should be removed.
Within sixty days, the Secretary of Health and Human Services
will report to me on actions to be taken to accomplish the goal
of more rapid movement to permanency for children in foster care.
This report should include, but should not be limited to,
recommendations in the following areas:
(1)
Legislative changes necessary to:
amt appropropriate of time
a.
Shorten the period between a child's placement
in
foster care and his or her first dispositional
hearing from the current 18 months to 12 months;
New
you
b.
Change "dispositional hearings" to "permanency
planning hearings" to clarify the purpose of the
hearings and encourage, as appropriate, referrals
mediation
for termination of parental rights, adoption,
legal guardianship or other permanent placements;
C.
Require states to make diligent efforts to secure
permanency through adoption or guardianship,
[after] a decision has been made that the child
cannot be returned home.
d.
Provide states with funding to identify barriers
to permanency and to develop targeted strategies
to place children who have been in foster care a
particularly long time. The details of this
program should be included in my budget submission
to Congress this coming February.
e.
Encourage Explore/examine the pursuit of alternative permanency
arrangements such as guardianship.
(2) Regulatory changes necessary to redefine the reasonable
efforts standard to ensure that permanency planning is
accorded equal weight in the efforts by the child
welfare system on the child's behalf.
3.
Increase public awareness about the benefits of adoption
(1) I direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to
develop and lead a public awareness effort, including
use of public service announcements, print materials
and the Internet.
(2) I direct the Secretaries of Health and Human Services
and the Treasury to develop and disseminate information
about adoption tax benefits and other adoption
benefits.
(3)
I direct the Secretaries of Labor and Commerce to
identify and recognize companies in the private sector
with model policies to encourage and ease adoption
among employees.
(4) I direct the Director of the Office of Personnel
Management to direct all federal agencies to provide
information and support to prospective adoptive
parents.
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Right
People.
the Right Infermation TO the NOIRS Right NOW
FAX
Bringing
National
Criminal
Justice
Reference Service
TRANSMISSION
Fax Number 301-251-5212
IN
DOMO
National Criminal Justice Reference Service
Anto
Box 6000
BJA
Rockville, MD 20850
ovc RIS
800-851-3420
301-251-5500
(If transmission is incomplete, please call designated telephone number)
To: Pauline Aberrathy Telephone Number: 202-456-5374
From: Marget Baneet Telephone Number: 301-251-5194
Number of Pages Including Cover Page: 6
Message:
Additional Information on CASA
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SENT BY ASPEN SYSTEMS
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention
JUVENILE JUSTICE BULLETIN
OJJDP
Robert W. Sweet, Jr., Administrator
Updated from 1987 printing
CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocate
for Children
A Child's Voice in Court
Danny is an 8-year-old boy who was
physically abused by his stepfather. A
CASA volunteer. after carefully re-
searching Danny's background. the facts
in the case. and considering the child's
own hopes and feelings, testified before
the court that it would be in Danny's
beat interest to live, not in a foster home.
but with his Aunt Marilyn. The CASA
volunteer convinced the court to place
Danny with his aunt, and was also able
to obtain foster care payments from the
State to help her take care of him.
Danny had a safe, secure, and permanent
home.
In Spanish "casa" means home. In
today's juvenile justice system, CASA
denotes a Court Appointed Special
Advocate-u trained volunteer who
advises the court about the best interests
of a child, like Danny. whose home
placement is being decided by the
court-usually as a result of abuse or
neglect. The CASA program tries to
ensure that a child's right to a safe.
permanent home is acted ON by the court
in a sensitive and expedient manner.
The CASA conducts all independent
investigation of the case and submits a
formal report advising the court about
the best placement for the child. During
the course of the investigation, the
CASA will have spoken with many
people-the child, parents and family
members, neighbors, doctors, teachers,
and others-and will have reviewed all
pertinent records and documents.
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OJJDP
History of the CASA program
and
system in protecting the child's right to
a safe and permanent family. When the
In seeking to provide immediato
Seaule program came to its attention,
protection to children suffering from
parental abuse and neglect, courts have
the committee voted w incorporate the
Seattle volunteer concept as one of its
not always been able to address the
models. The committee coined the
children's long-term interests In 1976.
more than half a million children in the
umbrella term "Court Appointed Special
delingen
and
United States were in Poster care. often
Advocate"-CASA-denoting any
sousers themselves
unable to be reunited with their own
volunteer following a clearly defined
families 01 adopted by new ones. Foster
role as a friend of the court in depend-
ency matters.
care-designed as a temporary shelter-
had become a de facto permanent
In 1978. a nationwide study was
placement. The courts were not always
conducted for the Office of Juvenile
"An effective CASA program can assure the court that и
OUTP
child is prospering in the ordered placement, and that no
child will be lost in the system," Judge Forest Eastman,
$
President, National Council of Juvenile and Family
Court Judges.
for
able to ascertain just what placement
Justice and Delinquency Prevention to
The
would be best for the child's long-term
evaluate volunteer programs in juvenilc
welfare.
of
the
courts. The Seaule program was to.
and unnovative. Working
one of the most successful and
Judge David W. Soukup. then Presiding
innovative.
the
Judge of King County Superior Count in
Children project
Seattle. Washington hegan to look for
As reports of Seattle's success spread.
National Counol of and
ways to make sure the child's best
new CASA programs sprang up in
Family Court Judges, OUTP
interests could be consistently presented
Rhode Island. California, Arizona,
the to
to the court. Traditionally. the child's
Arkansas. Florida. Connecticut. New
advocate in court is the "guardian ad
York, and clsewhere. With Florida
mitial
award
the
National
litem"-an attorney appointed by the
taking the lead, States began to pass
Association the National
court to represent a minor during
legislation authorizing such programs.
Council of
litigation. Few court-appointed attor-
to the
neys, however, had the time or the
Currently. there are more than 387
the
training to carry on the comprehensive
CASA (ur volunteer guardian ad litem)
security by
investigation that would clicit the
programs in 47 States. Twelve States—
or
information the court needed.
Alaska. Arizona. Connecticut. Dels
ware, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine,
3
Judge Soukup decided TO recruit and
North Carolina. Rhode Island. South
uniects
train community volunteers-ordinary
Carolina and Utah-have statewide
citizens-who would be asked to make a
programs that operate in the majority of
long-term commitment to each child for
jurisdictions and arc mandated by State
with
whom they would serve as guardian ad
law. The programs often ATC. known by
litem. Indge Soukup's concept became
different names-CASA, Guardian Ad
and
an active program on January 1, 1977.
Litem programs, Pro-Kids, Child
the
In its first year. the program provided
Advocates. and Foster Child Advocate
110 trained guardians ad litem for 498
Services.
Robert
children in 376 dependency cases.
In the fall of 1977. the Children in
How the CASA program helps
Office of
Placement Committee of the National
Council of Juvenile and Family Court
The child: Before CASA, it was not
Judges (NCJFCJ) was developing
unusual for dependent children to get
guidelines to assist the juvenile justice
"lost" in the red tape of court hearings.
2
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Although their future depended on the
for a child. Since volunteers are trained
stances bringing a child to the attention
Juventle court judge's placement
w recognize the value and availability of
of the court are defined as:
decision, these children had no trained
community services that can help
representative to thoroughly research
children and families, they often provide
Negleci-The failure of a parent or
their cases and speak for them in court.
the caseworker with substantive
custodian to provide basic necessities of
The courtroom was filled with profes-
information about what resources can
life such as food, shelter, clothing.
sionals-social workers and attorneys-
help 2 child. The CASA volunteer also
education. and medical treatment.
but no one had the time to find out what
has the time to gather facts and informa-
Physical abuse-Uaually in the
was really best for each child. As agents
tion about each child's case-time
form of an assault by those responsible
of the State. social workers considered
overworked caseworkers, who some-
for the child's welfare.
the child's interests. but only in the
times carry 60 to 90 cases simultane-
larger context of what was best for the
ously. do not have to give.
Sexual abuse-Including failure of
family unit. Attorneys were often
the responsible adult to protect the child
present to advocate individual inter-
The judge: CASA was started by a
from sexual abuse by another person.
ests-the wishes of the persons who
juvenile court judge as a means to bring
retained them. Judges often had to make
more information about the child into
Abandonment Leaving a child
the courtroom. In the past, many judges
without adequate care. supervision.
a decision on where children would live,
perhaps the rest of their lives, without
found that they were making placement
support, or parental contact for extended
sufficient information about the person
decisions on incomplete and/or insuffi-
or excessive periods of time.
that decision affected most directly
cient information. CASA volunteers are
assigned to cases by a judge; an impor-
Unwilling or unable-In which a
child. Today. CASA volunteers are
tant aspect of a CASA's job is fact-
parent or custodian is unwilling or
appointed by juvenile court judges to
cannot care for a child due w the adult's
represent the best interest of the child
finding for the court.
own mental retardation. mental illness,
in court.
or physical disability.
Psychological abuse-Failur
"The CASA program has demonstrated that volunteers can
provide the psychological nurturing
necessary for a child's growth and
effectively and inexpensively investigate the needs of chil-
development.
dren and articulate those needs to the court," Bruce P.
Clausen, Senior Assistant Attorney General, Washington
The role of the CASA
State.
Only the court can appoint a CASA and
only the court can dismiss a CASA for
Because they deal with only one or two
The anorney: CASA volunteers provide
failure to meet responsibilities. Ideally.
children at a time, CASA volunteers
a vital link between the attorney and the
the appointment is made when a child's
interests are first threatened and a
have the time to thoroughly research
child. Since CASA volunteers have the
each child's case. Their work pays off.
time w thoroughly research a child's
petition is presented to the court. The
CASA's provide the system with fresh
case before it goes to court, they can
appointment generally takes place
insight and needed manpower. The
provide important information to the
during or immediately after the first
information they gather helps form a
court that will aid attorneys in doing
hcaring, which may bc a shelter care or
their jobs. CASA volunteers also have
custody hearing.
more complete picture of that child's
life for the judge. The CASA volunteer
received special training in child abuse
The role of the CASA as a guardian ad
makes a recommendation-based on the
and neglect-training most attorneys
litem is to investigate, evaluate. and
facts-of what home placement the
have not had. The CASA is able to
recommend to the court what is unly in
CASA thinks would be best. CASA
bring that knowledge to the case.
the child's best interests, both from a
volunteers have been the safety not that
complementing the attorney's legal
temporary and a long-term standpoint
has kept many children. children like
expertise.
The CASA serves as:
Danny, from falling through the cracks
of the child welfare system. They have
Investigator-determining all
aided permanency planning efforts, and
Types of cases in which
relevant facts through personal inter-
helped thousands of children to live in
CASA's are appointed
views and a review of records, docu-
safe, secure, and stable homes.
ments, and clinical data.
CASA programs operate in dependency
The social worker: CASA volunteers
cases in which children have allegedly
Advocate-presenting the relevant
assist social service agencies by gather-
been abused, neglected, or abandoned
facts before the court at hearings,
ing information that can help a case-
by their families. The primary circum-
through written reports, and direct
worker develop an effective case plan
testimony.
3
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Facilitator or negotiator-ensuring
organizations, securing funding. hiring
Independent, objective thinking.
that the court, social services, and legal
program managers, and participating in
counsel fulfill their obligations to
the training and recognition of
Dedication to completing a
the child.
volunteers.
thorough investigation.
Monitor of all court orders—
Potential resistance from attorneys and
Ability to serve as an active CASA
ensuring compliance by all parties and
social workers can be defused by clearly
during the cntire litigation of the case.
bringing to the court's attention any
defining the CASA role in the proceed-
changes in circumstances that may
Impartiality.
ings and by working closely with these
require modification of the court order.
professional groups. A CASA is likely
Communication skills.
Willingness and ability to learn.
"When CASA is involved in a case, you know the system is
going to be working at peak efficiency," Patrick Murphy,
CASA Receives President's
Public Guardian of Cook County, Illinois.
Volunteer Action Award
In 1985, CASA volunteers nationwide
CASA volunteers are the eyes and ears
to come into frequent contact with both
were recognized for their work with
of the court, making independent.
attorneys and social workers during the
shused and neglected children when the
objective recommendations regarding
course of the case. Enlisting the trust
National CASA Association received the
the child's best interests. Judges have
and cooperation of all professionals in
President Volunteer Action Award for
come to count heavily on the CASA's
the juvenile justice system is an impor-
outstanding American volunteer achieve-
independent assessment and recommen-
tant aspect of the CASA program.
ment.
dations. However, since the CASA is
only one of the parties providing
Selecting a program manager is a key
CASA was selected from among 800
decision that should be made as soon as
nominations received from local,
recommendations to the court, the court
the CASA program is authorized. Most
regional. and national volunteer organi-
may or may nor accept the CASA's
recommendations. Each case is deter-
CASA programs have hired program
actions. The award, presented cach year
mined on the facts presented by all
managers with social service back-
to recipients in 20 categories, was
parties and how those facts relate to the
grounds. but a few have chosen aftor-
presented to CASA by President
neys. The program manager recruits the
Ronald Reagan is a special White House
case and State and Federal law.
volunteers. assigns a CASA to specific
cereniony
cases, supervises and consults with the
in the citation, President Reagen called
Establishing a successful
CASA during the cases, develops and
the award recipients "verganizations who
CASA program
implements training programs. and
have shown that the only limite on our
forges cooperative relationships with
ability to help others are our own
Developers of successful CASA
key court personnel. child welfare
imagination and determination.
programs have taken care to integrate
agencies. and the community at large.
them into the existing justice system and
The National CASA Association was
the community. They have identified
recognized for its achievements, includ
the following requisites for success:
Becoming a CASA volunteer
ing us growth from one local program in
1976 to 131 programs nationwide in just
The support of a strong judge to
Typical CASA recruitment literature
8 years. In 1989: there were more than
serve as the program's advocate and
states:
387 ASA progrous speaking for
mentor.
America children in 47 States,
If you are a mature, responsible
A clear definition of the CASA role.
adult who can relate to families in
The President' Award
stressful situations, and are willing
discosponsored VOLI
The appointment of an efficient.
to commit your time to ensure that
National
Center
effective program manager.
the existing process for the place-
organization, and ACTION
The recruitment and waining of a
ment of children works better, you
agency,for
broad spectrum of volunteers.
may become a CASA.
A strong judge can provide the impetus
Successful programs report that appli-
cants tend to screen themselves when
for the program. enlist community
support, and secure expert training for
they are provided with thorough,
the volunteers. Often judges have been
accurate information prior to their inter-
the prime movers-presenting proposals
views. Interviewers look for applicants
w the entire bench, meeting with related
exhibiting:
4
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The volunteer's special expertise in such
National CASA Association
Department of Justice provides funding
fields as child development, drug abuse,
for the National CASA Association. For
and retardation may be particularly
The National Court Appointed Special
information on becoming a member,
useful to the court. Previous traumas
Advocate (CASA) Association was
write the National CASA Association.
(sexual abuse, disability of a family
formed in 1982 to strengthen the
2722 Eastlake Avenue, East, Suite 220,
member, abandonment) also may
integrity and professionalism of its
Seattle, WA 98102
contribute to the CASA's ability to deal
members in their responsibilities as
sensitively with the child.
child advocates, and to unify and
promote the national network of CASA
For more Information
programs.
Training
The following organizations can provide
The Association offers training for
more information. and help courts and
Because each CASA program is unique
CASA program directors and volun-
communities interested in establishing a
to the needs of the jurisdiction il serves
teers; technical assistance to new and es-
CASA program:
and each volunteer's experience,
tablished CASA programs; current news
expertise. and background vary, CASA
on legislation, program development,
National CASA Association
training has taken many forms.
and case law in a quarterly newsletter,
2722 Fastlake Avenue. East
The Connection; an annual national con-
Suite 220
The initial preservice training, which
ference where volunteers and others
Seattle, WA 98102
takes from 10 to 45 hours, focuses on
from the child welfare system exchange
Attn: Beth Waid, Executive Director
child abuse and its causes. the character
Tel. 206-328-8588
Office of Juvenile Justice and
"CASA's most important feature is that it is a people-to-
Delinquency Prevention
U.S. Department of Justice
people program. It matches caring, well-trained volunteers
633 Indiana Avenue NW.
with children who otherwise might have no voice in deter-
Washington. DC 20531
Tel. 202-724-7573
mining their own future," Judge Tom McDonald, District
Court Judge, Louisville, Kentucky.
National Council of Juvenile and
Family Court Judges
P.O. Box 8970
of advocacy. juvenile justice legal
ideas and information; start up funds for
Reno, NV 89507
procedures, foster care and placement,
individuals interested in launching
Attn: Robert Praksti, Project Director,
and the CASA role.
CASA programs; and resource materials
Permanency Planning Project
designed specifically for CASA program
Tel. 702-784 6737
These and more specific topics related to
directors and volunteers.
the volunteer's responsibilities are
treated in greater detail during inservice
The Association also promotes the
The Assistant Attorney General, Office
training. Experience has shown that
CASA concept through ongoing public
of Justice Programs. coordinates the
volunteers working on cases benefit
awareness efforts. Information kits.
activities of the following program
particularly from simultaneous training.
promotional items. and public service
Offices and Bureaus: the Bureau of
Consultation with both administrative
announcements are available to pro-
Justice Statistics, National Institute of
and legal staff serves as further essential
grams. courts. and communities.
Justice. Bureau of Justice Assistance,
inservice training for all CASA's.
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delin-
The Office of Juvenile Justice and
quency Prevention. and the Office for
Delinquency Prevention of the U.S.
Victims of Crime.
NCJ 111392
5
001
11/08/96
17:36
202 514 6382
OJJDP
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
Office E' of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention
OJJDP
Office of luvenile Justice and
Delinquency Prevention
FAX TRANSMITTAL SHEET
DATE:
11-8-96
TO:
PAuliNE AberNathy
FAX NO.: 2020 ,156-2878 TELEPHONE NO.: (
)
FROM:
SHAY BILCHIK
ADMINISTRATOR
OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUSTICE AND DELINQUENCY PREVENTION
633 INDIANA AVENUE, N.W., ROOM 742
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20531
OR
FAX NO. : (202) 307-2093
TELEPHONE NO.: (202) 307-5911
NUMBER OF PAGES:
34
[includes this fax transmittal sheet]
ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION:
If you have NOT received all pages, please call me at the above-listed telephone
number.
THANK YOU.
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0JJDP
002
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 85-JS-CX-K027
PROJECT TITLE: PERMANENT FAM FOR ABUSED AND NEGLECTED CHILDREN: NTTAP III
GRANTEE: National Council of Juvenile & Family Court Judges
ADDRESS: PO Box 8970
Reno, NV
89507
GRANT PERIOD: 06/15/84 TO 03/31/94
LATEST AMARD DATE: 02/12/93
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
5,698,088
CRANT CONTACT: PRAKSTI. R.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY85
$1,477,888 85JSCXK027 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 06/17/85
FY86
$225,000
85JSCXK027 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 01 ACTION DATE: 12/27/85
FY86
5416,667
85JSCXK027
FUND TODE JS
SUPPLIMENT:
02
ACTION
DATE:
06/06/86
FY86
$2,055,564 85JSCXK027 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 03 ACTION DATE: 09/15/86
FYBE
5400,000 85JSCXK027 FUND CODE J5 SUPPLIMENT: 04 ACTION DATE: 02/12/88
FY89
$71,130 85JSCXK027 FUND CODE JS SUPPLIMENT: 05 ACTION DATE: 03/31/89
FY89
5147,839 85JSCXK027 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 06 ACTION DATE: 09/29/89
FY90
$219,000 85JSCXK027 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT. 07 ACTION DATE: 05/07/90
FY91
5225,000
85JSCXK027
FUND :ODE JS
SUPPLIMENT:
08
ACTION
DATE:
06/20/91
FY92
$225,000 85JSCXX027 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 09 ACTION DATE: 03/23/92
FY93
$225,000 95JSCXK027 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 10 ACTION DATE: 02/12/93
5,688,088
PROJECT SUMMARY
The primary purpose of this award is to enhance the government's response to child abuse and neglect. It will help
prevent children from lingering in costly foster care through emphasis in family reunification and adoption.
Project activities will include training in six states on "reasonable efforts". four national training conferences.
continued dissemination of their publication on making reasonable efforts in drug cases and their Reasonable Efforts
Training Video Notebook and Library. There will be continued coordination and cooperation with the National Court
Appointed Special Advocate Association.
A major new objective this year is to expand training and technical aesistance activities to include the application of
"reasonable efforts" and other Pub. Law 90-272 provisions to juvenile justice cases. A "Protocol for Making Reasonal le
Efforts to Preserve Families in Juvenile Justice Cases' will be developed.
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17:37
202 514 6382
OJJDP
003
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: ADJUDICATION
PROJECT NUMBER: 90-JS-CX-K001
PROJECT TITLE: SDYAP NONPARTICIPATING STATE INITIATIVE
GRANTEE: South Dakota Youth Advocacy Project
ADDRESS: 115 Bast Dakota Avenue
Pierre, SD
57501
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/90 TO 09/30/03
LATEST AWARD DATE: 09/30/92
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
875.000
GRANT CONTACT: LUKE, K.
GRANT MANAGER: Crank
FY90
$225,000 90JSCKX001 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 05/21/90
FY91
$325,000 90JSCXK001 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 01 ACTION DATE: 01/03/91
FY92
$325,000 90JSCXK001 FUND CODE JS SUPPLIEMENT: 02 ACTION DATE: 09/30/92
875,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The goal of this project is to provide program incentives and mechanisms for adequate planning which will allow the
State of South Dakata to conform to the mandates of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act. This 19 a
short-term project for the grantee. The South Dakota Youth Advocacy Project may not continue as a grant recipient of
Nonparticipating State funds after this project has been completed. The local projects funded under this grant are
demonstration projects intended to prove their effectiveness and be adopted by the sponsoring agency and others.
Inplementation efforts will probably include alternatives to secure confinement, alternatives to jail, and the
development of intake criteria.
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17:37
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0JJDP
004
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVHNILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER, 90-JS-CK-K002
PROJECT TITLE: CA5A FOR ABUSED & NEGELCTED CHILDREN: NATL TRNG & TA PROJ
GRANTEE, National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 West Harrison Street
Seattle, WA
BILL
GRANT PERIOD: 10/01/85 TO 03/32/05
LATEST AWARD DATE: 01/08/93
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
3,400,000
GRANT CONTACT: PIRAINO, M.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY90
$500,000 90JSCXK002 FUND CIDE JS SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 02/27/90
FY90
3150,000
FUND CIDE JS
SUPPLEMENT:
01
ACTION
DATE:
04/30/90
FY91
$750,000
90JSCXK002
FUND C.DE JS
SUPPLEMENT:
02
ACTION
DATE:
01/02/91
FY92
$1,000,000
90JSCXK002
FUND CIDE JS
SUPPLEMENT:
03
ACTION
DATE:
01/08/92
FY93
51,000,000 90JSCKK002 FUND CIDE JS SUPPLEMENT: 04 ACTION DATE: 01/08/93
3,400,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
This award will enable the National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Asssociation to continue to effectively
assist in the development of new CASA programs in collaboration with the "Permanent Planning for Abused and Neglected
Children" project of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges; provide training and training materials
to program directors and volunteers in all fifty states; and inform the general public about CASA A CASA, a Court
Appointed Special Advocate, ia a trained volunteer who recommends a plan that will serve the best interest of the chil ,
CASA recommendations to the court are based upon an independent thoroughly researched investigation of the faces as tr ey
relate to the child's circumstances. The CASA appears at all court proceedings regarding the child and monitors all
court orders. ensuring compliance by all parties and bringing changes in circumstances affecting the child that might
require modifications of the court order to the attention of the court.
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17:38
202 514 6382
OJJDP
005
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 93-JN-CX-0003
PROJECT TITLE: National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers
GRANTEE: National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers. Inc.
ADDRESS: 1319 F Street NW
Washington, DC
20004
GRANT PERIOD: 07/15/93 TO 08/14/95
LATEST AWARD DATE: 08/03/94
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
750,000
GRANT CONTACT, CHANDLER, N.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
FY93
$250,000 93JNCX0003 FUND CODE JN SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 07/23/93
FY94
$500,000 93JNCX0003 FUND CODE JN SUPPLIMENT: 01 ACTION DATE: 08/03/94
750,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The purpose of this grant is to allow the National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers to provide training and
cechnical assistance to assist in development or expansion of local children's advocacy enters. The Network will ass. BC
communities to respond to child abuse by facilitating multidisciplinary cooperation and coordination, and customized
training at local sites. The Network's three year strategic plan focuses on services to members, strengthening the
internal operation of the Network and increasing the visability and image of the Network through leadership and a
national presence. This year the National Network will develop a set of COTC competencies for programs affiliated with
the Network, develop a tracking system, and begin an evaluation process.
006
11/08/96
17:38
202 514 6382
OJJDP
BURRAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 93-JS-CX-K001
PROJECT TITLE: CASA FOR ABUSED & NEGLECTED CHILDREN NAIL GRANTS ADMIN PROJ
GRANTEE: National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 West Harrison Street
Seattle, WA
981:.9
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/93 TO 03/31,96
LATEST AMARD DATE: 01/19/93
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
1,000,000
GRANT CONTACT: Piraino, M.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY93 $1,000,000 93JSCXK001 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE, 01/19/93
1,000,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
This grant will allow the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association to award and administer grant funds C.
new and existing local and state court appointed special advocate (CASA) programs in order to increase the number of
CASA/GAL volunteers to serve more abused and neglected children in court settings. The National Court Appointed Spec al
Advocate Association provides training and technical assistance to program directors and volunteers. A CASA is a
trained volunteer who recommends a plan that will scrve the best interest of the child. CASA recommendations to the
court are based upon a independent throughly researched investigation of the facts aa they relate to the child's
circumstances. The CASA appears at sll Co.rt proceedings regarding the child and monitors all court orders, ensuring
compliance by all parties and bringing changes in circumstances affecting the child that might require modifications CC
the court order to the attention of the court.
NCASSA expects to award subgrants for a two-year period in amounts ranging from 520,000 to $50,000. All subgrants will
be awarded to "associate beneficiaries" or organizational affiliates that will perform functions to implement the
purposes of the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association.
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17:39
202 514 6382
OJJDP
007
BURRAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CAREER CRIMINAL/SERIOUS JUV OFF
PROJECT NUMBER: 93-JS-CX-K002
PROJECT TITLE: DUE PROCESS ADVOCACY PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
GRANTEE: American Bar Association
ADDRESS: 740 15th Street NW
Washington, DC
20005
GRANT PERIOD: 10/01/93 TO 09/30/95
LATEST AWARD DATE: 09/30/94
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
350,000
CRANT CONTACT: SMITH, T.
GRANT MANAGER: Chemers
FY93
$100,000 93JSCXK002 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: DO ACTION DATE: 09/30/93
FY94
$250,000 93JSCXK002 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 01 ACTION DATE: 09/30/94
350,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The overall design of the project is to increase the access of juvenile offenders to legal services and to improve the
quality of preadjudicated, and dispositional advocacy for juvenile offenders. The American Bar Association (ABA) and
its partners the Youth Law Center of San Francisco, California and the Juvenile Law Center for Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania will conduct an assessment of legal service programs for juveniles in the States and localities. They V° 11
also examine Federal and State laws relate: to the issues of juvenile representation. The ABA will also examine all
relevant literature. The product of this :ffort will be a report. The first year from the information developed dur:ng
this assessment, ABA began to develop strategies for improving access to counsel and they began developing training
materials to improve the quality of services. During this second year, project activities will be directed toward
preparing the final report on survey results, preparing and pretesting the curriculum, and conducting multi-site
training. Resource materials will be developed to enhance the efforts of public defenders, state and local bar
associations, and children's law centers t: improve the quality of defense services for youth. The third year the ABJ
will provide training throughout the country.
11/08/96
17:39
202 514 6382
0JJDP
008
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA, CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 94-CH-CX-K001
PROJECT TITLE: CASA FOR ABUSED & NEGLECTED CHILDREN: NATL GRANTS ADMIN PROJ
GRANTEE: National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 West Harrison Street
Seattle, WA
9811:
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/94 TO 12/31/96
LATEST ANARD DATE: 02/17/91
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
3,500,000
GRANT CONTACT: PIRAINO, M.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY94 $3,500,000 94CHCXK001 FUND CODE CH SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 02/17/94
3,500,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
This grant will allow the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association (NCASAA) to award and administer gran
funds for new and existing local and state court appointed special advocate (CASA) programs in order to increase the
number of CASA/GAL volunteers to serve more abused and neglected children in court settings. The National Court
Appointed Special Advocate Association provides training and technical assistance to program directors and volunteers
A CASA ia a trained volunteer who recommends a plan that will serve the best interest of the child. CASA
recommendations to the court are based upon an independent thoroughly researched investigation of the facts as they
relate to the child's circumstances. The CASA appears at all court proceedings regarding the child and monitors all
court orders, ensuring compliance by all parties and bringing changes in circumstances affecting the child. that requ.re
modifications of the court order, to the attention of the court.
NCASAA expects to award up to 80 subgrants for a two-year period in amounts ranging from $20.000 to $75,000 each. Al :
subgrants will be awarded to "associated beneficiaries" or organizational affiliates that will perform functions to
implement the purposes of the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association.
11/08/96
17:39
202 514 6382
OJJDP
009
BUREAU, OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 94-CH-CX-K002
PROJECT TITLE: CASA POR ABUSED & NE.LECTED CHILDREN: NATIONAL I & TA PROJ
GRANTEE: National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 Weat Harrison Street
Seattle, WA
95110
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/94 TO 03/31/45
LATEST ANARD DATE: 03/02/94
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
1,000,000
GRANT CONTACT: PIRAINO. M.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY94 $1,000,000 94CHCXK002 FUND CODE CH SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 03/02/94
1,000,000
PROJECT SUBMARY
This award will enable the National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association to continue to effectively
assist in the development of new CASA programs in collaboration with the "Permanent Planning for Abused and Neglected
Children" project of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges; provide training and training materia's
to program directors and volunteers in all fifty states: and inform the general public about CASA. A CASA, a Court
Appointed Special Advocate, is a trained volunteer who recommends a plan that will serve the beat interest of the ch ld.
CASA recommendations to the court are based upon an independent thoroughly researched investigation of the facts as hey
relate to the child's circumstances. The CASA appears at all court proceedings regarding the child and monitors all
court orders. ensuring compliance by all parties and bringing changes in circumstances affecting the child that migh
require modifications of the court order 1:0 the attention of the court. In 1994. NCASAA will begin to implement it'
urban program development initiative with the assistance of its corporate council. This aix year project will targe
large urban arcas where a CASA program wi L1 be initiated or an existing program will be helped to expand.
11/08/96
17:40
202 514 6382
0JJDP
010
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CAREER CRIMINAL/SERICUS JUV OFF
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-JS-FX-K003
PROJECT TITLE: Due Process Advocacy Program Development
GRANTEE: American Bar Association
ADDRESS: 740 15th Street NW
Washington, DC
20005
GRANT PERIOD: 10/01/93 TO 03/31/97
LATEST AWARD DATE, 02/09/96
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
750,000
GRANT CONTACT: Puritz, P.
GRANT MANAGER: Dodge
FY95
$250,000 95JSFXK003 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 03/24/95
FY96
$500,000 95JSFXK003 FUND CODE JS SUPPLEMENT: 01 ACTION DATE: 02/09/96
750,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The overall design of the project is to increase the access of juvenile offenders to legal services and to improve the
quality of preadjudicated, and dispositional advocacy for juvenile offenders. The American Bar Association (ARA) and
its partners, the Youth Law Center of San Francisco, California and the Juvenile Law Center of Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania will conduct an assessment 01 legal service programs for juveniles in the States and localities. They 111
also examine Federal and State laws related to the issues of juvenile representation and all relevant literature. The
first product of this effort will be a report on the status of defense services and recommendations for expanding an
improving chose services. From the information developed during this assessment, ABA will develop strategies for
improving access to counsel and training materials to improve the quality of services. During this second year, PIO ECC
activities will be directed toward preparing the final report on survey results, preparing and pretesting the
curriculum, and identifying implementation steps. Resource materials will be developed to enhance the efforts of pul lic
defenders, state and local bar association, and children's law centers to improve the quality of defense services fo
youth. The third year the ABA will provide training throughout the country.
The supplemental award will allow the development of strategics that state and local bar associations can use no
increase availability of defensc council; develop comprehensive training materials and a training program for lawyer
judges, and others who may assist defense lawyers, and test and refine the training program; develop a marketing or
distribution process 80 that the program can be transferred to State and local bar associations and other relevant
organizations: and finalize the training materials and training program and distribute to State and local bar
associations and other relevant organizations.
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202 514 6382
OJJDP
011
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-VI-GX-K001
PROJECT TITLE: CASA Program Development for Native American Tribal Courts
GRANTEE: National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 West Harrison Street
Seattle, WA
98119
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/95 TO 08/31/17
LATEST AWARD DATE: 09/30/96
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
153,635
GRANT CONTACT: Piraino, M.
GRANT : ANAGER: Brown
FY95
553.635 95VIGXK001 FUND CODE VI SUPPLIMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 04/11/95
FY96
$100,000 95VIGXK001 FUND CODE VI SUPPLIMENT: 01 ACTION DATE: 09/30/96
153,635
PROJECT SUMMARY
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) :.9 a volunteer trained to represent the best interests of the child in
dependency, abuse, and neglect proceedings. The CASA communicates with all parties involved in the case and provides 01
independent thoroughly researched plan to the court, monitors all court proceedings, and brings any changes in
circumstances to the attention of the court..
This cooperative agreement will support the four developing tribal CASA programs by providing funding. telephone and 01-
site technical assistance and training, and resource materials. The award will also provide planning grants and traini 19
and technical assistance to two additional :ribal communities to develop a CASA program and allow the National Court
Appointed Special Advocate Association to conduct a tribal grantee meeting.
012
11/08/96
17:40
202 514 6382
OJJDP
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ARUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 96-CH-NX-K001
PROJECT TITLE: Court Appointed Special Advocates for Abused & Neglected Children: A National Training and Tecl nical Assistance
GRANTEE: National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 West Harrison Street
Seattle. WA
98119
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/94 TO 02/24/97
LATEST ANARD DATE: 07/25/96
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
315,000
GRANT CONTACT: Piraino, M.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY96
$315,000 96CHNXK001 FUND CODE CH SUPPLIMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 07/25/96
315,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
This award will enable the National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association to continue to effectively
assist in the development of new CASA programs in collaboration with the "Permanent Planning for Abused and Neglected
children" project of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges: provide training and training morerial:
to program directors and volunteers in all fifty states; and inform the general public about CASA. A CASA, a Court
Appointed Special Advocate, is a trained vilunteer who recommends a plan that will serve the best interest of a child
CASA recommendations to the court are based upon an independent thoroughly researched investigation of the fact:- as C1 =y
rclate to the child's circumstances. The CASA appears at all court proceedings regarding the children and monitore all
court orders, ensuring compliance by all parties and bringing changes in circumstances affecting the child that might
require modifications of the court order to the attention of the court. NCASAA will continue its outreach to large
urban areas without CASA programs with the assistance of its corporate council. A continuing focus will be placed on
the development of statewide organizations. CASA will also continue providing competitive subgrants to new and existing
programs and statewide organization through a second grant to the National Association. NCASAA will also continue
development of its online computerized information system, CASANET.
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17:41
202 514 6382
0JJDP
013
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA, CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 96-CH-NX-K002
PROJECT TITLE, CASA: A National Grants Program Administration Project
GRANTER: National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 West Harrison Street
Seattle, WA
98119
GRANT FERIOD, 06/01/96 TO 05/31/99
LATEST AWARD DATE: 07/26/96
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
4,940,000
GRANT CONTACT: Piraino, M.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY96 54,940,000 96CHNXK002 FUND CODE CH SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 07/26/96
4,940,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
This grant will allow the National Court Appointed Special Advocate (NCASAA) to award and administer grand funds for new
and existing local and state court appointed special advocate (CASA) programs in order to increase the number of
CASA/GAL volunteers to serve more abused and neglected children in court settings. The National Court Appointed Spec ial
Advocate Association provides training and technical assistance to program directors and volunteers. A CASA is a
trained volunteer whom recommends a plan that will serve the best interest of the child. CASA recommendations to the
court are based upon an independent, thortughly researched investigation of the facts as they relate to the child's
circumstances. The CASA appears at all clurt proceedings regarding the child and monitors all court orders, ensuring
compliance by all parties and bringing changes in circumstances affecting the child, that might require modification: of
the court order, to the attention of the court.
All subgrance will be awarded to "associated beneficiaries* or organizational affiliates that will perform functions to
implement the purposes of the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association. Subgrants will range from $20. 00
to $80,000 and will be for " two-year per:od. Applicants musc agree to comply with NCASSA standards for CASA/GAL
programs.
014
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17:41
202 514 6382
0JJDP
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUTENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 96-MU-MU-0015
PROJECT TITLE: Midwest Regional C-ildren's Advocacy Center
GRANTEE: La Rabida Childrens Hospital and Research Center
ADDRESS: East 65th at Lake Michigan
Chicago, IL
60619
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/97 TO 12/31/97
LATEST AWARD DATE: 09/30/96
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
134,914
GRANT CONTACT: Nirde, F.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
FY96
510,000 96MUMU0015 FUND CODE VF SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 09/30/96
FY96
$121,914 96MUMU0015 FUND CODE CI SUPPLIMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 09/30/96
134,914
PROJECT SUMMARY
This award provides for the continued development of efforts of the Midwest Regional Children's Advocacy Center (MRCAO)
The purpose of the MRCAC is to improve comunities' response to child abuse and neglect cases by assisting them in the
development of multidisciplinary. interagency teams that collaborate in the prosecution, intervention, treatment and
prevention of such cases. The MRCAC does this by providing training, a continuum of technical assistance from Lelepho 18
support to on-site. intensive consultation and resource materials. Efforts are coordinated with the National Network
of Children's Advocacy Centers and the other three regional CACs. This project year. the MRCAC will focus on:
encouraging and promoting the development OF organized, formal statewide and sub-regional networks. developing models
for constituent involvement and collaborating with the other RCACs on mutual projects.
11/08/96
17:42
202 514 6382
0JJDP
015
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 96-MU-MU-K009
PROJECT TITLE: National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers
GRANTES: National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers, Inc.
ADDRESS: 1319 F Street NW
Washington, DC
20004
GRANT PERIOD: 10/01/96 TO 03/31/98
LATEST AWARD DATE: 09/17/96
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
2,010,000
GRANT CONTACT: Chandler, N.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
F796
$10,000 96MUMUK009 FUND CODE VF SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 09/17/96
FY96
$2,000,000 96MUMUK009 FUND CODE CI SUPPLIMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 09/17/96
2,010,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The purpose of this award is to improve the response of local communities to abuse and neglect by providing grant fui ds
and expertise directly to local children's advocacy centers in support of program development. staffing, technical
assistance and training.
11/08/96
17:42
202 514 6382
OJJDP
016
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: SYSTEM SUPPORT
PROJECT NUMBER: 94-CI-CK-K001
PROJECT TITLE: NATL NETWORK OF CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTERS: A GRANTS ADMIN
CRANTEE: National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers, Inc.
ADDRESS: 1319 F Street NW
washington, DC
20004
GRANT PERIOD: 10/01/94 TO 03/31/96
LATEST AWARD DATE: 09/30/94
AMOUNT OF MONEY,
1,000,000
GRANT CONTACT: CHANDLER, N.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
FY94
$1,000,000 94CICXK001 FUND CODE CI SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 09/30/94
1,000,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The purpose of this grant is to allow the National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers to provide training and
technical assistance to assist in development or expansion of local children's advocacy centers. The Network will
assist communities to respond to child above by facilitating multidisciplinary cooperation and customized training at
local sites. Under this cooperative agreement. The National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers will provide
technical assistance to communities through site visits, mentoring, and on-site consultation; provide grants for
training for the entire multi-disciplinary team either on or off-site ae well as provide special training as needed: nd
provide grants for program development to existing programs to allow enhancement of the local program.
11/08/96
17:42
202 514 6382
0JJDP
017
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVINILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 94-JS-CX-K001
PROJECT TITLE: PERMANENT FAM. FOR ABUSED & NEGLECTED CHILDREN, NTTAP III
GRANTEE: National Council of Juvenile & Family Court Judges
ADDRESS: PO Box 8970
Reno, NV
89507
GRANT PERIOD: 04/15/84 TO 03/31/95
LATEST AWARD DATE: 04/05/94
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
225,000
GRANT CONTACT: PRAKSTI, R.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY94
$225,000 94JSCXK001 FUND CODE JS SUPPLIMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 04/05/94
225,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The primary purpose of this award is to e ihance the government's response to child abuse and neglect. It will help
prevent children from lingering in costly foster care through emphasis on family reunification and adoption.
Project activities will include training in six states on "reasonable efforts"; four national training conferences; and
continued dissemination of their publication on making reasonable efforts in drug cases and their Reasonable Efforts
Training Video Notebook and Library. There will be continued coordination and cooperation with the National court
Appointed Special Advocate Association.
This year the Council will continue a ma: >I new objective to expand training and technical assistance activities to
include the application of "reasonable efforts" and other Pub. Law 96-272 provisions to juvenile justice cases A
"Protocol for Making Reasonable Efforts 1.3 Preserve Families in Juvenile Justice Cases" will be developed.
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018
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-CH-FX-K001
PROJECT TITLE: CASA for Abused & Neglected Children: National Training and Technical Assistance Project
GRANTEE: National Court Appointed special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 Weat Harrison Street
Seattle, WA
981:9
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/94 TO 02/24,97
LATEST AWARD DATE: 02/02/96
AMOUNT OF NONEY:
1,685,000
GRANT CONTACT: Piraino, M.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY95
$1,000,000 95CHFXK001 FUND CODE CH SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 01/31/95
FY96
5685,000 95CHFXK001 FUND CODE CH SUPPLIMENT: 01 ACTION DATE: 02/02/96
1,685,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
This award will enable the National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association to continue to effectively
assist in the development of new CASA programs in collaboration with the "Permanent Planning for Abused and Neglecter
Children" project 01 the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges; provide training and training materials
to program directors and volunteers in all fifty states; and inform the general public about CASA. A CASA, a Court
Appointed Special Advocate. is a trained .olunteer who recommends a plan that will serve the best interest of the child.
CASA recommendations CO the court are bas:d upon an independent thoroughly researched investigation of the facts as they
relate to the child's circumstances. The CASA appears at all court proceedings regarding the child and monitors all
court orders, ensuring compliance by all ;arties and bringing changes in circumstances affecting the child that might
require modications of the court order to the attention of the court. NCASAA will continue its outreach to large urtan
areas without CASA programs with the assistance of its corporate council. A continuing focus will be placed on the
development of statevide organizations. TASA will also continue providing competitive subgrance 0 new and existing
programs and statevide organizations through a second grant CO the National Association.
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019
BURKAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-CH-FX-K002
PROJECT TITLE: CA5A FOR ABUSED & NEGLECTED CHILDREN: NATL GRANTS ADMIN PROJ
GRANTEE: National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
ADDRESS: 100 West Harrison Street
Seattle, WA
981.9
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/95 TO 12/31/97
LATEST AWARD DATE: 01/31/95
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
5,000,000
GRANT CONTACT: PIRAINO, M.
GRANT MANAGER: Brown
FY95 55,000,000 95CHFXK002 FUND CODE CH SUPPLIMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 01/31/95
5,000,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
This grant will allow the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association (NCASAA) to award and administer gran:
funds for new and existing local and state court appointed special advocate (CASA) programs in order to increase the
number of CASA/GAL volunteers to serve more abused and neglected children in court settings. The Nacional COUIT
Appointed Special Advocate Association provides training and technical assistance to program directors and volunteers
A CASA is a trained volunteer who recommends a plan that will serve the best interest of the child. CASA
recommendations co the court are based upon an independent, thoroughly researched investigation of the facts as they
relate to the child's circumstances. The CASA appears at all court proceedings regarding the child and monitors all
court orders, ensuring compliance by all parties and bringing changes in circumstances affecting the child, that migh.
require modications of the court order, IC. the attention of the court.
All subgrants will be awarded to "associated beneficiaries" or organizational affiliates that will perform functions o
implement the purposes of the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association. Subgrantees will range from
$20,000 to $75,000 and will be for a two-year period. Applications must agree to comply with NCASSA standards for
CASA/GAL programs.
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020
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVE:ILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-CI-CX-K001
PROJECT TITLE, SOUTHERN REGIONAL CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER
GRANTEE: National Children's advocacy Center
ADDRESS: 2204 Whiteeburg Drive
Huntaville, AL
35801
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/95 TO 03/31,16
LATEST AWARD DATE: 02/21/95
AMOUNT OF MONEY,
125,000
GRANT CONTACT: wilson, C.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
FY95
5125,000 95CICXK001 FUND CODE CI SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 02/21/95
125,000
PROJECT SUBMARY
This award provides for the National Children's Advocacy Center (NCAC), the nation's first Children's Advocacy Center.
to catablish and develop the Regional Children's Advocacy Center one of four serving Maryland, Virginia. North
Carolina. South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Texas, District of
Columbia, Delaware, Oklahoma, Weet Virginia, and Mississippi. The primary objeccives of the SRCAC are to: (1 imp ove
and enhance communities' responsc to child abuse; (2) develop training and technical assistance materials; and (3) elp
coordinate CACe nationally to promote national standards OF practice and maximize efficient utilization of training and
technical assistance resources.
The Regional Children's Advocacy Center Program seeks to increase the number of facility-based multi-disciplinary
children's advocacy centers throughout the nation for purposes of providing coordinated, non-traumatizing services =
children and families who are victims of abuse and neglect.
The National Children's Advocacy Center provides local abuse prevention programs, child-focused intervention and
treatment services for sexually abused and physically abused children and their non-offending family members. The goils
are to prevent child abuse through increased education, reduce the revictimization of abused children through
intervention, assessment, and evidence-guthering in a child-friendly setting. to offer state-of-the-art treatment by
expert mental professionals: and provide assistance to professionals in other communities wishing to improve their
skills and establish a Children's Advocacy Conters.
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021
BURRAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-CI-CX-K002
PROJECT TITLE. WESTERN REGIONAL CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER
GRANTEE: Pueblo Child Advocacy Center
ADDRESS: 301 West 13th Street
Pueblo, CO
81003
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/95 TO 04/30/96
LATEST ANARD DATE: 02/22/95
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
125,000
GRANT CONTACT: Cain, T.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
PY95
5125,000 95CICXK002 FUND CODE CI SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 02/22/95
125,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
This award provides for the development of the Western Regionals Childrens Advocacy Center by the Pueblo Child Advoce FY
Center. This grantee will assist communities in the western states, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona.
Utah, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, Washington. 'laska, Hawaii, and California, with training and T.A. in support of CAC
disciplinary team response to victims of :hild abuse, their non-offending family members and organization development.
The Pueblo child Advocacy Center, in part-ership with the Community Resource Center, will bring complementary strengt as
and increased organizational capacity to :he program, with the Pueblo Child Advocacy Center providing administrative
over-sight and knowledge regarding the multi-disciplinary approach to child abuse, and the Community Resource Center
contributing fiecal management and overall nonprofit training and expertise.
Pueblo Child Advocacy Center proposes to increase the long-term viability of child advocacy centers in the Western
Region by building and strengthening the :-rganizational infrastructures: creating networks linking local CAC's on lc P.
state, and regional levels; constructing replicable training models, methods, and materials based on national atandai 02:
and coordinating with the National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers in the development of comprehensive strate ies
for multi-disciplinary, facility-based approach to child abuse.
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-CI-CX-K003
PROJECT TITLE: Northeast Regional Children's Advocacy Centers
GRANTEE: Childron's Advocacy Center, Inc.
ADDRESS, 4000 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA
19104
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/95 TO 07/31/96
LATEST AWARD DATE: 02/22/95
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
124,853
GRANT CINTACT: Kirchner, C.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
FY95
5124,853 95CICXK003 FUND CIDE CI SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 02/22/95
124,853
PROJECT SUMMARY
This award provides for the establishment of the Regional Children's Advocacy Center development CO promote multi-
disciplinary models and coordinate training and technical assistance resources regionally. This grantee will assist
communities in the Northeast region states Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Massachusctts, Connecticut, Rhade
Island, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey with program start-up. and will strengthen existing centers by supporting their
passage through developmental stages.
This project is intended to foster and enecurage the development of a collaborative multi-agency approach to the
prevention, investigation and treatment of sexual abuse of children. The mission of this project, then. is to protect
child and adolescent victima of sexual abuse; to make sure the children receive comprehensive and sensitive treatment.
Working with the National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers and three other Regional Children's Centers, they will
develop and coordinate implementation of namional standards of practice, as well as national models for providing
training and technical assistance to CAC's. Philadelphia Children's Advocacy Center proposes strategies that will
increase the likelihood of accomplishing these objectives.
The project will be monitored through a rev:.ev of narrative progress and financial status reports, site visit, and
attendance at one of the working group meetings.
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022
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-CI-CX-K004
PROJECT TITLE: MIDWEST REGIONAL CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER
GRANTEE: La Rabida Childrens Hospital and Research Conter
ADDRESS: Bast 65th at Lake Michigan
Chicago, IL
60619
GRANT PERIOD: 01/01/95 TO 05/31/96
LATEST AWARD DATE: 02/22/95
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
124,914
GRANT CONTACT: HOCHSTADT, N.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
FY95
$124,914 95CICXK004 FUND CODE CI SUPPLEMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 02/22/95
124,914
PROJECT SUMMARY
This award provides for the establishment of the Mid West Regional Children's Advocacy Center to promote the developm int
of multi-disciplinary team models and coordinate training and technical assistance resources regionally. The Chicago
Child Abuse Resource Center of LaRabida proposes several objectives that divide into two broad areas: development of
multi-disciplinary team models and coordination of training and technical assistance resources regionally. Working with
an organizational developmental model, the Project vill develop multi-disciplinary teams to: Work from a framework
which identifies the developmental needs of communities, to assist communities to create multi-disciplinary approac ICE
to child abuse. Specifically with respect to the development of comprehensive free standing Children's Advocacy
Centers, they will assist CACe with the tasks and activities which correspond to each dovelopmental stage. Adapt the
CAC model, developed primarily for sex abuse investigations and cases, to the broader area of child abuse and neglec
Enhance coordination among community agencies and professions involved in the intervention. prevention, prosecution ind
investigation systems that respond to child abuse cases. Enhance skille of volunteers and professionals staffing
Children's Advocacy Centers. Provide support for non-offending family members of child victims. The area of impact 1
the midwest region of the United States: Chio, Indiana, Michigan. Kansas, wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota,
Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota and Nebraska.
023
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0JJDP
BUREAU: OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-CI-PX-K005
PROJECT TITLE: National Network ot Children's Advocacy Centers: The Continuation of a Coordinated Approach to Training, TA & N
GRANTER: National Network of: Children's Advocacy Centers, Inc.
ADDRESS: 1319 F Street NW
Washington. DC
20004
GRANT PERIOD: 07/15/95 TO 09/15/96
LATEST AWARD DATE: 06/30/96
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
1,000,000
GRANT CONTACT: Chandler, N.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
FY95
5500,000 95CIFXK005 FUND CODE CI SUPPLIMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 07/21/95
FY96
$500,000 95CIFXK005 FUND CODE CI SUPPLEMENT: 01 ACTION DATE: 08/30/96
1,000,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The purpose of this award is to improve the response of local communities to child abuse and neglect. The grantee wi 1
do that by increasing community awareness of the Children's Advocacy Center model nationwide and providing training and
technical assistance to jurisdictions interested in developing or strengthening CACa. The award will also help
strengthen the National Network's capacity to conduct outreach services and strengthen coordination between the Network
and the Regional Children's Advocacy Centers. Objectives focus on program services and growth: training and technical
assistance; governance; and data collectio- and cvaluation.
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024
BUREAU, OJJDP-OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUST & DEL PREV
PROGRAM AREA: CHILD ABUSE
PROJECT NUMBER: 95-CI-FX-K006
PROJECT TITLE: National Network 01 Children's Advocacy Centers: A National Grants Administration Project
GRANTEE: National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers, Inc.
ADDRESS: 1319 F Street NW
Washington, DC
20004
GRANT PERIOD: 10/01/95 TO 03/31/97
LATEST AWARD DATE: 09/19/95
AMOUNT OF MONEY:
2,000,000
GRANT CONTACT: Chandler, N.
GRANT MANAGER: Delany-Shaba
FY95
$2,000,000 95CIFXK006 FUND CODE CI SUPPLIMENT: 00 ACTION DATE: 09/19/95
2,000,000
PROJECT SUMMARY
The purpose of this award 1a to improve the response of local communities to child abuse and neglect by providing gs int
funds to local children's advocacy centers to support program development. staffing. technical assistance and traini g.
This grant will also enable the National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers to provide training and technical
assistance to jurisdictions interested in developing or enhancing multidisciplinary approaches to abuse and neglect.
10/15/96
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002
POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF WELFARE REFORM SSI CHANGES ON
THE TITLE IV-E FOSTER CARE AND ADOPTION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
THE LINK BETWEEN TITLE IV-E AND SSI:
A child who is eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is
eligible for title IV-E adoption assistance if the child meets
all of the special needs criteria at the initiation of the
adoption proceedings. The special needs criteria are:
1) the child cannot or should not be returned home; 2) there
exists a specific factor or condition because of which it is
reasonable to conclude that the child cannot be placed for
adoption without providing title IV-E adoption assistance; and,
3) except where it would be against the best interests of the
child, a reasonable, but unsuccessful, effort has been made to
place the child without title IV-E adoption assistance.
POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF NEW SSI ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
Fewer special needs children will be eligible for the title
IV-E Adoption Assistance Program.
The change in definition for "childhood disability" under the SSI
Program instituted under the Personal Responsibility and Work
Opportunity Reconciliation Act is more restrictive than the
current definition. For example, some children with emotional
and behavioral disorders may no longer be eligible for SSI based
on the new definition of childhood disability. Therefore, title
IV-E adoption assistance subsidy will not be available for some
special needs children who were eligible for this program based
on their SSI eligibility. The more restrictive SSI criteria will
apply both to future SSI eligibility determinations, as well as
to redeterminations of eligibility for children currently
receiving SSI.
Without an SSI or title IV-E adoption assistance subsidy, it
may be more difficult to find adoptive placements for
special needs children, because potential adoptive families
may lack the resources to care for them.
There may be an increase in the number of disabled children
and families who enter the child welfare system.
Some families will lose SSI eligibility due to the more
restrictive SSI eligibility criteria, which will increase
financial pressures on families. Financial pressures can
compound the stress which the family may already experience,
potentially resulting in a need for child welfare services,
including out-of-home placements.
Because some children will lose SSI eligibility, States may
begin to claim title IV-E foster care and adoption
assistance reimbursement for children in foster or adoptive
placements, who were previously supported by SSI
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002
November 7, 1996
MEMORANDUM FOR
The Secretary of Health and Human Services
The Secretary of the Treasury
The Secretary of Labor
The Secretary of Commerce
The Director of The Office of Personnel Management
SUBJECT:
Steps to increase adoptions and other permanent placements for
waiting children and Improve the Child Welfare
System
Today, There are over 450,000 children in the our nation's foster care system. Eight out of
have special needs they are disabled, older, have siblings who also need to be adopted, or are
minorities.-The great majority of these children will go home, but for over 65,000 of them,
returning home is not an option. These are children who will need another loving, permanent
home. More than seven out of ten have special needs -- they are disabled, older, have siblings or
are minorities. The average child Many of these children may wait as long as two years to be
placed, and minority children may wait twice as long.
Loving adults are cager to offer permanent homes to many of these children. However, families
face often significant obstacles, including complex regulations, prohibitive costs and outdated
assumptions.
I am committed to giving these waiting children what every child in America deserves -- loving
parents and a healthy, stable home. I believe we should set three goals. First, we should reduce
the backlog of children who are legally free to be adopted and waiting in the foster care system,
by working with states to double the number of these children who are adopted or permanently
placed. Second, we should reduce interminable unnecessary delays by working to find
appropriate permanent homes for waiting children within one year of entering the child welfare
system.- Second, we should reduce to one year the time necessary to find permanent homes for
children with a goal of adoption. And third, we should increase public awareness about the
benefits of adoption.
Today, therefore, I am directing the Secretaries of Health and Human Services, Treasury, Labor
and Commerce and the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to take the following
actions to meet these three goals.
1.
Double the number of children in foster care adopted or permanently placed by the
year 2002
In 1994 (the most recent year for which data are available), approximately 20,000 children were
adopted and approximately 8,000 went into legal guardianship. There are about 20,000 children
in the nation's foster care system who cannot return safely to their homes, and who need
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003
permanent placement with new families and who are legally free to be adopted. We should will
work with states so to assure that in the year 2002, 56,000 children are adopted or permanently
placed from out of the public child welfare system in the year 2002.
Within sixty days, the Secretary of Health and Human Services will consult with states and our
other partners, and will report to me on actions to that should be taken to double the number of
children in foster care who are adopted or permanently placed. This report should include, but
should not be limited to, recommendations in the following areas:
(1)
Plans to work with states on developing and reaching state specific numerical
targets toward meeting the national goal. Plans may should include technical
assistance, initiatives to involve community leaders, parents, the business and
faith communities, and use of the national resource centers to make information
on best practices available to states. The details of the program to provide
technical assistance should be included in my budget submission to Congress this
coming February.
(2)
Proposals to provide a financial per child bonus to states for each child adopted
from the child welfare system. The details of this program should be included in
my budget submission to Congress this coming February.
(3)
Compilation and publication of an annual state-by-state report on success in
meeting the numerical targets.
(4)
Recognition of successful states by the White House.
adoptive
to
2.
Reduce to one year the time necessary to find & permanent/home for the average
want only, w/ w/ goal
child in foster care children with a goal of adoption?
by year 2002
one year to decide one year
Current federal laws and regulations have played a role in delaying appropriate permanent
after
of
placements. While the Federal law requires that reasonable efforts be made to prevent placement
that
in foster care and to reunify families, there is no comparable requirement to make reasonable
be
efforts to secure a permanent place for a child if a decision is made that when the child cannot
return home. The law should emphasize the importance of planning for permanency -- both
whetions
adoption, and alternatives such as guardianship or kinship care. Barriers keeping children
needlessly in foster care should be removed. Affirmative action must be taken to secure
that
permanency and shorten unnecessarily long foster care stays.
Within sixty days, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, will consult with states and our
Family a is not
other partners and will report to me on actions to be taken proposed changes in federal law and
regulation needed to accomplish the goal of more rapid movement to permanency for children in
foster care. This report should include, but should not be limited to, recommendations that will
in the following areas:
(1)
Legislative changes necessary to:
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004
a.
Shorten the period between a child's placement in foster care and his or
her first dispositional hearing from the current 18 months to 12 months.
b.
Clarify the purposes of Change "dispositional hearings" to "permanency
planning hearings" to clarify the purpose of the hearing and to SO that they
include as options referrals for termination of parental rights, and
removing obstacles to adoption or referrals to legal guardianship or other
permanent placements.
C.
Require states to make "diligent efforts" to secure permanency through
adoption or guardianship, after a decision has been made that the child
cannot be returned home. Encourage states to give appropriate weight to
permanency planning by establishing a standard for securing permanency
through adoption or guardianship after a decision has been made that the
child cannot be returned home: and by exploring regulatory changes.
d.
Provide states with funding to identify barriers expedite movement toward
to permanency, and to fund solutions and targeted efforts to place children
who have been in foster care a particularly long time. The details of this
program should be included in my budget submission to Congress this
coming February.
e.
Encourage the pursuit study and evaluation of alternative permanency
arrangements such as guardianship.
(2)
Regulatory changes necessary to redefine the reasonable efforts standard to ensure
that permanency planning is accorded equal weight in the efforts by the child
welfare system on a child's S behalf (Jen this one is now folded into "c" above).
3.
Increase public awareness about the benefits of adoption
This month, I signed a proclamation designating November as National Adoption Month -- a
time to increase awareness about the tens of thousands of children waiting for families and to
encourage all Americans to consider the rewards and responsibilities of adoption. However,
adoption must be a national concern throughout the year. Therefore, I direct:
(1)
The Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop and lead a public
awareness effort, including use of public service announcements, print materials
and the Internet;
(2)
The Secretaries of Health and Human Services and the Treasury to develop and
disseminate information about adoption tax benefits and other adoption benefits;
(3)
The Secretaries of Labor and Commerce to identify and recognize companies in
the private sector with model policies to encourage and ease adoption among
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005
employees; and
(4)
The Director of the Office of Personnel Management to direct all Federal agencies
to provide information on adoption benefits available through the tax system and
family leave provisions. and provide support to Federal employees who may
consider adoption.
TO:
Distribution
FROM:
Jennifer Klein
j.k.
Nicole Rabner
DATE:
10/18/96
RE:
Materials for Monday Meeting on Adoption
Attached please find materials for Monday's meeting on adoption which will be held
in Room 100 at 5:00 p.m. The first document is a short description of the goals and
proposals that we are planning to announce. The second is the Department of Health and
Human Services' drafts of the Presidential Memorandum and of a document describing the
initiatives. Monday's meeting will be an opportunity to discuss our questions and concerns
about these drafts.
adoption Anitiative / October 21, 1996
Phone
Sax
MAC REED
OMB/OGC
395-3563
395-7294
Madeline Nase
HMS/86C
690-8005
690-7320
JOHN CALLAHAN
ASMBLIAMS
690-6356
650-5405
Wender Jacobson
ASPE/HHS
401-6127
690-6562
Ann Rosewater
ASPE/HHS
690-7409
690.6562
Cwilliam
CB/ACYF
205-8618
260-9345
Dan Lewis
CB/ACYF
205-8618
260-9345
Bruce Reed
WH/DPC
4566515
4565557
Lyn Hogan
WH/DPC
456-5567
456-7028.
JEREMY Ben-Ami
WH/DPC
456-5564
Mary Bourdette
HHS (ASC
690-6311
6908425
Then Argel
OMB
395-4844
395-5730
Lesle C.SL
unB
395-7763
395-0851
Barry White
om R
395 4552
395-7752
Nicole Rabner
OFL
456-6266
456-6244
melisse@kolfield Jennifer Mein
HHS
690-7850
690-5673
OFL
456-2594
456-2818
To:
Jeremy Ben-Ami
Date: October 18, 1996
Jennifer Klein
Fr:
Lyn Hogan
Re:
Subsidized Guardianship
This memo proposes subsidized guardianship as a permanency option to consider during
Monday's adoption meeting. Subsidized guardianship could well provide a permanent
option for as large or greater a portion of the caseload as adoption.
Background
All across the country, child welfare agencies are facing a crisis in the foster care system.
Caseloads have been exploding in recent years, while the number of potential caregivers has
decreased. Too many children are staying in foster care too long, delaying permanent
planning and driving up program and administrative costs for the state and Federal
governments.
Because of the increasing foster care caseloads and declining number of traditional foster care
providers, states have been relying on informal kinship care to meet their ongoing placement
needs. Many of the children in both kin and non-kin placements have no hope of retaining a
permanent home and will remain in the foster care system until they age-out. (Kinship care
providers do not have the legal standing that a foster parent or guardian does nor are they
eligible for cash or in-kind benefits, and cannot give consent for medical care or enroll a child
in school.)
Currently, Federal law offers two permanency options: family reunification and adoption.
For children in which reunification and adoption are not possible, permanency, as traditionally
defined, cannot occur.
With the large number of children in informal arrangements and aging out of care without a
permanent situation, it is all the more important to examine new and creative alternatives for
this population of children.
Subsidized Guardianship
Subsidized guardianship is one such new permanency planning option. Subsidized
guardianship allows a child's foster care case to be closed while still making financial and
other services available to the family. Subsidized guardianship is often used to make a
kinship care placement permanent, eliminating the need for ongoing supervision.
1
Currently, 10 states have various forms of subsidized guardianship as an alternative
permanency option¹, though at their own expense. Federal law does not permit IV-E funds to
be transferred to a guardian, except though waivers form Federal law. Recently HHS
approved two child welfare waivers to allow Illinois and Delaware to implement Federally
subsidized guardianship -- the only two waivers of their kind in the nation.
Change Needed In Law
To allow guardianship as a permanent option under title IV-E, the following change in
Federal law would be necessary.
The Federal government would have to amend Part E, Federal Payments For Foster Care and
Adoption Assistance, titles IV-B and IV-E of the Social Security Act, to parallel the foster
care and adoption sections to allow federal matching funds for guardianship maintenance
payments.
This change in law would allow federal matching funds to states for eligible children placed
in permanent guardianship situations. In other words, all or a portion of title IV-E
maintenance funds would follow a child into a guardianship situation, thereby closing a child's
foster care case and creating a permanent situation for that child.
Costs
At minimum, subsidized guardianship is cost-neutral. However, it is more likely that savings
will result. While a portion, or all, of the IV-E foster care maintenance payment would
transfer to the guardian, the foster care administrative and program costs would no longer be
applicable.
As part of its child welfare waiver application, Illinois conducted a cost-benefit analysis of
subsidized guardianship. Illinois's proposal estimates an accumulated savings of $22,000,000
over a five year period. The saving comes from reduction of administrative and program
costs.
Further, HHS estimated average monthly savings for subsidized guardianship at $508.00 a
month, or $6,096 a year. HHS estimates that if only 4 percent of the current IV-E foster care
caseload moved into guardianship status, annual savings would reach $63.4 million. The
percentage of those entering subsidized guardianship would likely be well above 4 percent.
1 States with non-federally subsidized guardianship proposals include
Alaska, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Nebraska, South Dakota, Washington, California,
Colorado, Illinois and New Mexico. Illinois and Delaware have the only two
existing federally subsidized programs.
2
Questions and Concerns
In adapting such a proposal, several questions would have to be answered that could affect
cost.
--Would any funds be available for administration and planning?
--How would a state determine a child's eligibility for guardianship status? (Several states
have minimum age requirements for children going into guardianship status since younger
children are more likely to be adopted than older children.)
--How long must a child remain in foster care before becoming eligible for guardianship?
(States have set minimum foster care stays that vary from 6 months to 18 months.)
--What eligibility requirements must a guardian meet?
--How would a state design its guardianship program to ensure that guardianship is as
permanent as possible? (Guardianship is not as permanent as adoption because the birth
parents' rights are not terminated.)
3
10/16/96 WED 14:37 FAX
001
Jennifer Klein
INTERAGENCY ADVISORY GROUP
UNITED STATES
OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT
FASHINGTON. DC 20415
Secretarist
1900 E St. NW
NOV I 4 1989
(202) 632-6266
Subject:
The President's Adoption Initiative
allan
From:
Allan D.
for Employee and Labor Relations
To:
Directors of Personnel
The President has proclaimed Thanksgiving Week, November 19-25, to be National
Adoption Week. This was preceded by his issuing on July 24, 1989, a memorandum
to heads of Federal agencies urging them to promote adoption awareness among
Federal employees and assist employees who have adopted or want to adopt children.
The memorandum tasked the Office of Personnel Management and the Department of
Health and Human Services to work with agencies in implementing ideas for supporting
the adoption plans and needs of Federal employees.
In support of the President's message, OPM Director Newman recently issued FPM
Bulletin 792-46, entitled "Implementing the President's Adoption Initiative." The
bulletin provides information and guidance for agencies in their efforts to carry
out the President's initiative, such as ways in which existing personnel management
programs and flexibilities can support Federal employees who are considering
adopting or who have adopted children; suggested agency activities to promote
adoption awareness among Federal employees; and lists of organizations for agencies
to contact if they would like to obtain additional information and materials on
adoption. A copy of the bulletin is attached for your information and use.
On October 17 OPM and HHS co-sponsored a half-day seminar entitled "Implementing
the President's Initiative on Adoption." The seminar featured discussions of
adoption procedures, resources available in the area of adoption, personnel programs
and flexibilities which can support employees' adoption plans, and activities
agencies could sponsor for National Adoption Week. Several agency officials unable
to attend the seminar have since contacted OPM requesting information on adoption
resources and ideas for promoting National Adoption Week. As a service to agencies
unable to attend we are attaching a list of materials distributed at the seminar
and information on how to obtain them. We are also attaching a sample statement
which HHS has prepared for agencies to consider using in informing their employees
about National Adoption Week.
OPM is establishing a clearinghouse of Federal agency efforts in the area of adoption
as a way of facilitating the sharing of ideas and information among agencies on
adoption initiatives. We urge agencies who develop materials on adoption to send
them to the clearinghouse. We have already obtained sample letters and materials
from some agencies which may be useful in planning for National Adoption Week. In
addition, the clearinghouse has listings of area resources on adoption, including
experts from local social service and adoption agencies who are available to speak
during National Adoption Week. You may contact Mary Giallorenzi at (FTS/202)
653-8551 to obtain materials from OPM's clearinghouse.
Attachments
10794
- 1887
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4.
002
Office of Personnel Management
FPM Bulletin 792-46
Federal Personnel Manual System
FPM Bulletin
Bulletin No. 792-46
Washington, D. C. 20415
SUBJECT: Implementing the President's Adoption Initiative
October 25, 1989
Heads of Departments and Independent Establishments:
1. Introduction
In a memorandum to heads of Federal agencies issued on July 24, 1989 the President urged
agencies to encourage and assist employees who have adopted or want to adopt children. The
memorandum also tasked the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS) to work with agencies in implementing ideas for supporting the
adoption plans and needs of Pederal employees. The purpose of this Federal Personnel Manual
bulletin, which was developed in consultation with HHS, is to assist agencies in carrying
out the President's directive. It discusses ways in which existing personnel management
programs and flexibilities can support Federal employees who are considering adopting-or-who
have adopted children; explains the role of agency Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) in
providing support to employees with dependent care needs; provides suggested agency activities
to promote adoption awareness; and lists various resources on adoption.
Adopting a child can be a very rewarding experience. There are currently many children
available for adoption, including children with "special needs (that is, those who may be
difficult to place with adoptive parents because of factors such as ethnic background, age,
membership in a minority or sibling group, or the presence of a physical, mental, or
emotional handicap). The Federal Government, as an employer, has the capacity to encourage
and support its employees in adopting a child. This bulletin provides specific ideas for
assisting the employee who is, or is considering becoming an adoptive parent.
2. Proposed Benefits for Adoptive Parents
As part of the President's initiative to support adoption, the Administration has proposed
legislation entitled the "Federal Employees' Special Needs Adoption Expenses Reimbursement
Act of 1989." The proposed legislation focuses on the adoption of children with special
needs and, if enacted, would establish a four year demonstration program under which
Federal civilian employees would be reimbursed for certain expenses incurred in the adoption
of such children. Under the proposal, employees would be reimbursed up to $2,000 for &
single adoption, and up to $5,000 per year if the employee adopts several special needs
children. The Administration is proposing that the Act take effect on January 1, 1990.
The Office of Personnel Management would be responsible for establishing regulations
and policy guidelines governing the demonstration program, and for evaluating its effective-
ness and reporting to the President and the Congress. OPM will provide further information
and guidance to agencies on the demonstration program if it is enacted into law.
Inquiries: Employee Health Services Branch, Personnel Systems and Oversight Group
(FTS/202) 632-5558
Code:
792, Federal Employees Health and Counseling Programs
Distribution:
Basic FPM
Bulletin Expires:
October 20, 1990
OPM FORM 654 6/02
003
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FPM Bulletin 792-46
(2)
3. Existing Personnel Programs
There are various personnel programs and policies in place which can support an employee
who is considering adopting or who has adopted a child. OPM encourages agencies to use
these programs and policies in a compassionate and flexible manner.
a. Employee Insurance and Survivor Benefits
(1) Health Insurance Program
Adopted children are considered to be "eligible family members" who can be
included as part of a family insurance plan under the Federal Employees Health
Benefits Program (5 CFR 890.302(b)). Foster children can also be covered if they
live with the employee in a regular parent-child relationship and are expected
to be raised to adulthood by the employee (FPM Supplement 890-1). OF particular
value to adoptive parents, especially those who adopt older children or children
with medical problems, is that Federal health benefits plans are prohibited from
denying benefits solely because of a pre-existing physical or mental condition
and there is no waiting period for coverage to begin (5 CFR 890.201(b)).
The regulations also provide that the adoption of a child allows a Federal
employee to change from self only to family enrollment (5 CFR 890.301(e)).
Children who are incapable of self support because of a disability incurred
before age 22 may continue to be covered under the Health Insurance Program
(5 CFR 890.302(d)). Finally, employees granted extended leave without pay may
retain their health benefits coverage during their period of leave for up to 1
year (5 CFR 890.303(e)). This may be an important consideration for an employee
who takes several months off to care for an adopted child.
(2) Life Insurance Program
Through the Federal Employees Group Life Insurance Program, an employee may
insure an adopted child (but not a foster child) (5 CFR 873.702(a)). Children
who are incapable of self support because of a disability incurred before age 22
may continue to be covered under the Life Insurance Program (5 CFR 873.703).
An adopted child, just as a biological child, is an automatic beneficiary if
there is no designated beneficiary or surviving spouse (5 CFR 870.901(a)(1)).
Life insurance coverage also continues during periods of leave without pay of up
to 1 year (5 CFR 870.501
(3) Retirement Program (Survivor Benefits)
Unmarried dependent adopted children (but not foster children) are also eligible
for survivor benefits from the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and the
Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) under the same circumstances as
biological children until they reach age 18 (5 U.S.C. 8341(a) and 8441(4)).
Benefits may continue until age 22 if they are full time students. Unmarried
children regardless of age who are incapable of self support due to a mental or
physical disability incurred before age 18 may continue to be eligible for survivor
benefits as children.
b. Federal Government Leave Program
(1) Leave for Parental and Family Responsibilities
OPM has issued guidance specifically dealing with leave for adoption and foster
care. (See FPM Chapter 630, Subchapter 13, Section 13-6.) The guidance
recognizes that employees who take on the responsibility of adopting a "special
needs" child may need more support and encouragement than parents of children
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004
FPM Bulletin 792-46 (3)
who are not disadvantaged. It notes that agencies should be flexible and
child. compassionate in granting leave for extended periods to care for a newly adopted
(2) Leave Transfer
Under the leave transfer program, employees can voluntarily donate annual leave
to employees who need such leave because of serious medical emergencies affecting
themselves or members of their families. (See interim regulations issued in the
Federal Register on January 31, 1989 (54 Fed Reg 4749), and April 28, 1989 (54
Fed Reg 18267), and FPM Letter 630-33, October 4, 1989.) These programs can help
ease the emotional and financial burdens generated by medical emergencies of
employees or their dependents. As such they could be very helpful to adoptive
and foster parents.
C. Agency Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are ideally suited for the role of educating and
assisting employees in the area of adoption. Most agencies have broad scope EAPs
which include educational programs and assistance in a variety of areas, including
family concerns. These "broad brush" EAPs provide short-term counseling and referrals
to local community resources programs, such as social service agencies. EAPs can also
perform a wide range of other activities, such as coordinating support groups for
employees who are foster or adoptive parents, single parents or blended families;
sponsoring educational programs; and conducting other activities suggested in attachment
2. At a minimum, agencies should ensure that their EAPS are aware of the resources listed
in attachment 3 and of pertinent resources in their local communities. FPM Chapter 792,
Subchapter 6 contains further guidance on Employee Assistance Programs.
d. Dependent Care Programs
Federal agencies provide various dependent care services and resources which could be
beneficial to adoptive or foster parents as they are to parents generally. FTH Bulletin
792-43, issued on June 28, 1988, provides further information regarding dependent care
services.
e. Work Scheduling Flexibilities
(1) Part-time Employment and Job Sharing
Agencies are encouraged to give strong consideration to providing part-time or
job-sharing opportunities to employees who request them in connection with family
responsibilities, including adoption or foster care of a child. FPM Bulletin
340-11, issued on October 12, 1988, points out that the Federal government has
been a leader in developing alternatives to full-time employment, and urges
agencies to take a fresh look at the part-time employment program. The guidance
notes that the majority of career employees now working on part-time schedules
are women who want extra time to make caring for their families easier. FPM
Chapter 340 contains considerable guidance for agencies about the benefits to
both the employee and the agency of part-time and job sharing arrangements.
(2) Flexible and Compressed work Schedules
Agencies have authority to establish flexible and compressed work schedules
(5 U.S.C. SS 6122 and 6127). Agencies may authorize a variety of working
arrangements under the program for flexible and compressed work schedules. For
example, using flexitime, an adoptive or foster parent could work an early shift
in order to be home when the child returns from school in the afternoon. or,
using a compressed work schedule, an employee could work four 10-hour days per
week in order to be home with the child 3 full days each week. Agencies may
005
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FPM Bulletin 792-46
(4)
also allow employees to participate in combined flexible/compressed schedules
to meet the individual needs of the employee. For further guidance on using
flexible and compressed work schedules see FPM Supplement 990-2, appendix C of
Book 610, and Book 620.
f. Flexible Workplace Project
OPM is co-sponsoring a pilot project to explore the feasibility and utility of flexible
workplace arrangements in the Federal government. Agencies participating in the project
will permit groups of employees to work at home (or at other specified locations) for
part of the workweek. Work at home could be of assistance to adoptive parents.
4. Sharing Information About Adoption Activities
OPM encourages agencies to share information and ideas on implementing the
Administration's adoption initiative. OPM will act as a clearinghouse for Federal
agency efforts in this area. Contact the Employee Health Services Branch at
(FTS/202) 632-5558 if your agency develops a policy on adoption that you would be
willing to share with other agencies or if you have additional activities to suggest.
A copy of the President's July 24, 1989 Memorandum for Heads of Departments and Agencies,
suggested agency initiatives to promote adoption awareness among Federal employees,
and a list of organizations which can provide information and resources on adoption are
included in the attachments to the bulletin. Also attached are two fact sheets on
adoption: "Adoption - - Where DO I Start* and "Subsidized Adoption: A Source of Help
for Children with Special Needs and Their Families."
Constance Berry Newman
Director
Attachments
10/16/96 WED 14:38 FAX
006
Attachment 1 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 24, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES
SUBJECT:
Administration Support for the Adoption Option
The foundation of our nation is the American family, protector of
our most valuable yet vulnerable resource -- our children.
Sadly, thousands of American children do not have a family to
call their own. They are children who may have been abandoned,
neglected or abused, who have seen their childhood unfairly
snatched away. We can give them back their childhood, simply by
finding them a permanent adoptive family. This, I believe, is an
effort worthy of our greatest commitment.
Everyone wins in adoption. It is time for the leaders of the
Federal workforce to ensure that our government is pro-
adoption, Adoption works -- for children who need homes, for
people hoping to become parents, and for women facing a crisis
pregnancy.
As the leaders of the Federal civilian and military labor force,
we have the opportunity to positively affect the lives of
Federal employees and to provide leadership for our entire
nation. I am directing you and your staff to consider ways to
provide such leadership to advance the adoption alternative.
Adoption can help to address some of our most pressing issues:
teenage pregnancy, foster care, infertility, and welfare
dependency. Most importantly, adoption provides a home and love
to children who may have neither.
Consider just a few facts:
0
An estimated 15 percent of American couples of reproductive
age are infertile.
O
About 60,000 children are adopted every year in this
country. of these, 10,000 come from foreign countries.
Right now, nearly 30,000 American children are legally
available for adoption. Some of them are school-age, some
are physically or emotionally handicapped, some are members
of sibling groups that need to be placed in the same home,
and some are minority children.
Each year nearly 25,000 American babies are given life and
the chance to be loved when their mothers choose adoption
over abortion or unwanted parenthood, yet the opportunity to
consider adoption is often denied to pregnant women. I am
10/16/96 WED 14:39 FAX
007
Attachment 1 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
(2)
told that as much as 40 percent of pregnancy counseling does
not even mention adoption.
I have instructed my Domestic Policy Council to develop a
Presidential adoption initiative, and that process is well under
way. To complement this effort, I am asking you to develop
methods for supporting the adoption plans and needs of your
employees and for promoting adoption among your workforce. Here
are just a few ideas:
Use agency resources for employees who are considering
adopting, who have adopted children, or who have a family
member facing a crisis pregnancy. Employee Assistance
Programs (EAPs) may be the most appropriate resource.
Begin planning now for agency-wide celebration and
observance of National Adoption Week (Thanksgiving Week).
Your agency's focus could be upon local children in need of
adoptive homes.
Ensure that all employee supervisors are as flexible as
possible regarding the adoption-related leave needs of
employees. This might include incremental (hourly) leave
needed to meet with adoption agency personnel or longer
periods of leave to care for a newly adopted child.
o
Feature adoption articles in agency newsletters. These
might include stories about employees who have adopted
special needs children, infants, or children from other
countries, as well as a regular column picturing a local
waiting child.
I have instructed both the Department of Health and Human
Services and the Office of Personnel Management to work with you
in implementing these and other ideas.
A commitment to adoption is one we can all share. With just a
small effort, we can help our own employees and, just as
importantly, we can provide national leadership in support of
adoption. Finding loving homes for waiting children is reward
enough.
Cy Binel
10/16/96 WED 14:39 FAX
008
Attachment 2 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
Suggested Agency Initiatives to Promote Adoption Awareness
There are a variety of activities that agencies can undertake to promote adoption awareness
among their employees. Agencies may wish to consider the following ideas:
1. Publicize agency policies on the existing personnel programs and management flexibilities
(such as those discussed in paragraph 3 of the bulletin) which provide support to an employee
who is an adoptive or foster parent or is in the process of adopting a child (perhaps issued
as an employee letter or memorandum from top management).
2. Use agency Employee Assistance Programs (EAPS), discussed in paragraph 3(c) of the
bulletin, to provide support groups, counseling and referral for employees who are considering
adoption, are in the process of adopting, or have adopted a child, as well as to sponsor or
participate in the educational activities suggested below.
3. Participate actively in "National Adoption Week," November 19-25, 1989, perhaps focusing
on local children needing homes.
4. Sponsor or participate in adoption promotion/awareness campaigns on a local level.
5. Feature articles in agency newsletters and bulletins about such topics as agency
activities to promote adoption, special needs children available for adoption, and personal
experiences of employees who have adopted a child or care for foster children.
6. Hold agency-sponsored seminars, workshops, or lunchtime awareness programs, featuring
experts on adoption from the community, such as representatives from social service agencies,
and employees who can speak about their personal experiences in adopting special needs
children.
7. Distribute articles, pamphlets and brochures to all agency employees; include materials
in new employee orientation packages; place materials in employee lounges, break areas, and
health unit waiting rooms; print messages on pay slips pointing out the number of children
who need homes and asking the employee to consider helping; display posters which encourage
adoption of special needs children and photographs of special needs children available for
adoption (obtained from local community social service agencies) with adoption information
sources.
8. Solicit the involvement and support of employee unions to co-sponsor educational
activities and include articles in union newsletters.
9. Establish a resource center within the agency containing information on adoption and
foster care, such as reports, pamphlets, brochures, videos, lists of local contacts for
foster care and adoption.
10. Assemble lists of employees who are willing to volunteer to assist adoptive parents.
The lists could include employees who are adoptive parents themselves as well as those who
have professional qualifications, including attorneys, educators, and counselors. The
assistance rendered by these volunteers could include practical advice, referral to social
and educational services, legal assistance, and conducting support groups.
600
10/16/96 WED 14:39 FAX
Attachment 3 to PPM Bulletin 792-46
Resources
a. Federal Government Organizations
(1) The Department of Health and Human Services
Oversees, in addition to a number
Administration for Children, Youth and
Federal child welfare programs,
Families
the Federal foster care program
The Children's Bureau
and the Adoption Opportunities
330 C Street, SW
Act, which funds a number of
Washington, DC 20201
initiatives to find homes for
(FTS/202) 245-0618
waiting children.
National Adoption Information
Provides easily accessible
Clearinghouse
information on all aspects of
1400 Eye Street, NW, Suite 600
adoption. Publishes fact sheets on
Washington, DC 20005
adoption issues; provides lists of
(202) 842-1919
adoption agencies, expert speakers,
and other resources available in
each state; maintains a computerized
information database containing
abstracts of over 1400 articles on
adoption; and provides annotated
lists of films and videotapes on
adoption.
(2) The U.S. Office of Personnel Management
Responsible for policy guidance and
Employee Health Services Branch
technical assistance for Federal
Office of Employee and Labor Relations
employee health and assistance-
1900 E Street, NW Room 7412
related personnel issues, including
Washington, DC 20415
dependent care and employee
(FTS/202) 632-5558
assistance programs.
b. National Organizations
(1) The North American Council on
Association of adoptive parent
Adoptable Children
support groups involved in recruiting
P.O. Box 14808
families for older, minority and
Minneapolis, MN 55514
handicapped children. Provides
(612) 644-3036
ongoing support for families who
have adopted special needs children.
Publications available.
(2) National Adoption Center
Provides referrals to community
1218 Chestnut Street
agencies; registers approved families
Philadelphia, PA 19107
and waiting children with special
(800) TO-ADOPT (outside Pennsylvania)
needs; suggests matches of families
(215) 925-0200
and children to appropriate agencies;
and provides information about
special needs adoption.
(3) The National Resource Center on
Provides publications, training,
Special Needs Adoption
and technical assistance on the
P.O. Box 337
adoption of special needs children.
Chelsea, MI 48118
(313) 475-8693
010
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Attachment 3 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
(2)
(4) National Committee for Adoption
1930 17th Street, NW
Organization of private adoption
Washington, DC 20009
agencies and individuals interested
(202) 328-1200
in adoption. Accredits private
agencies; monitors legal develop-
ments in the adoption field;
gathers and disseminates statistics
about adoption; counsels individuals
and agencies about pregnancy,
infertility and adoption; refers
families to agencies; publishes
a fact book on adoption; and
provides posters on adoption.
(5) Committee for Single Adoptive Parents
Provides a handbook for single
P.O. Box 15084
adoptive parents.
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
(6) Adoptive Families of America
An adoptive parent support organiza-
3307 Highway 100 North, Suite 203
tion, promoting domestic and
Minneapolis, MN 55422
intercountry adoption. Publishes
(612) 535-4829
a bimonthly magazine on adoption.
(7) The CAP Book, Inc.
A national photo listing service
700 Exchange Street
of children waiting to be adopted.
Rochester, NY 14608
(716) 232-5110
011
10/18/96 WED 14:40 FAX
Attachment 4 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
NATIONAL ADOPTION
INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE
ADOPTION - WHERE DO I START?
Adopting a child can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. However, the
adoption process can be emotionally trying, time-consuming, and frustrating. This article provides
some basic information about adoption alternatives and the adoption process, in order to make the
experience a little easier for you.
Adoption in the 1980's is very different from what it was when most of today's adults were
growing up. Now, for instance, relatively few white babies are available for adoption in
comparison with the number of families who want to adopt However, there are many older,
handicapped, minority, and foreign-born children who need adoptive families. Adoption agencies
are seeking families or single adults who can love, care for and raise these children.
What kinds of children are available for adoption?
American Infants: Although there are more people who want to adopt whice, American babies than
there are babies available for adoption, some white infants are available, primarily through private
agencies and independent adoptions. However, there are black infants available for adoption by
black families, as most agencies prefer to place minority children with parents of the same ethnic
background.
Children with Special Needs: Many children with "special needs" are available for adoption.
These children may be older (grade school through teens), have physical, emotional, or mental
handicaps, or be brothers and sisters who should be adopted together. Usually, these children are
in the state foster care system. Both public and private agencies place special needs children. In
addition, national, regional, and state adoption exchanges will assist in matching prospective
parents with these children. The exchanges and agencies usually have photolisings with pictures
and descriptions of available children. In many cases, adoption subsidies are obtainable to assist
the parents with the legal, medical, and living costs associated with caring for a child with special
needs.
Intercountry Adoption: Children from other countries are available for adoption by American
parents. Korea, Central and South America, India, and the Phillippines are the sources of most
foreign-born children adopted by Americans.
There are strict immigration requirements for adopting these children, as well as substantial fees for
the agency, transportation for the child, and legal and medical services. Many private agencies
place children from foreign countries: it is important that you choose a licensed, knowledgeable
organization, as the intercountry adoption process is lengthy and complex. You can check an
agency's qualifications with your State Department of Social Services Adoption Specialist or with
local adoptive parent groups.
As prospective parents, you should carefully consider the emotional and social implications of
adopting 3 child of a different nationality. In this situation, you are adopting I culture as well as a
child
Operated By: CSR, Incorporated Suite 600, 1400 Eye Street NW Weshington, D.C. 20005 202-842-7600
Funded By: Administration for Children, Youth, and Families U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
012
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Attachment 4 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
(2)
Who can adopt?
The traditional eligibility requirements for adoptive parents have been changed to some extent, so
the characteristics of today's adoptive parents can be quite different from those of the past.
However, for many infant adoptions, agencies will only consider couples married at least one to
three years, between the ages of 25 and 40, and with stable employment income. Some agencies
require that the couple have no other children and be unable to bear children; some require that the
adoptive mother not work outside the home for at least six months after the adoption.
For children with special needs, some black American infants, and some intercountry adoptions,
agencies are willing to consider single applicants, those over age 40, and those with other children.
The adoption of American Indian children by non-Indians is strictly limited by the Federal Indian
Child Welfare Act. Agencies will discuss the various eligibility regulations and possibilities with
you.
Steps in Agency Adoption
There are several steps you must complete for any type of adoption through an agency. In addition
to the basic procedures described below, other procedures may be necessary, depending upon your
particular needs and those of the child and the biological parents.
(1) Select an Adoption Agency: There are both public and private adoption agencies. A public
agency is the local branch of your State social service agency; this agency can assist you or refer
you to a private agency. Most public agencies handle only special needs adoptions - not infant or
intercountry adoptions. Private agencies are supported by private funds and are licensed or
approved by the state. They may be sectarian or non-sectarian To obtain the names of some local
agencies, look under "Social Services" or "Adoption Services" in the Yellow Pages or ask adoptive
parents and other knowledgeable sources for their recommendations. The National Adoption
Information Clearinghouse (NAIC) can also identify agencies in your area, or you can purchase the
American Adoption Directory from the NAIC. Additional information sources are listed at the end
of this article.
If you want to adopt an infant, you should register with as many agencies as possible, if the
agencies will allow this. Because of long waiting Lists, agencies may not always accept new
applicants.
(2) Complete the Application and Pre-Placement Investigation: When you contact an agency you
may be invited to attend an agency-sponsored group educational session in which interested
applicants learn about the agency's procedures and available children, and receive the application
forms. The agency will review your completed application to determine whether to accept you as a
client; if accepted at a private agency you will probably have to pay a registration fee at that time.
Then the pre-placement investigation, or "home study" can begin.
The home study is an evaluation of you as a prospective adoptive family and the physical and
emotional environment into which the child would be placed It is also 1 preparation for adoptive
parenthood. It consists of a series of interviews with a social worker, including at least one
interview in your home. During this process, applicants should, with the social worker's
assistance, consider all aspects of adoptive parenthood and identify the type of child they wish to
adopt. Some agencies use a group approach to the educational part of the adoption preparation
process.
Many of the questions asked in the home study are personal, including questions about income,
assets, health, and the stability of the marriage (if married) and/or family relationships. Physical
013
10/16/96 WED 14:40 FAX
Attachment 4 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
(3)
exams to ensure that the prospective parents are healthy may also be required. A home study is
usually completed in a few months, depending upon the agency's requirements and the number of
other clients.
(3) Be Prepared to Wair: Adopting a child always requires a waiting period of some duration. If
you want to adopt a white infant, you will probably have to wait at least one year from the time the
home study is completed, and more frequently two to five years. Black applicants wishing to
adopt black infants will have a shorter wait, probably less than six months. If you want to adopt a
child with special needs, you can begin to review photolistings immediately to identify appropriate
children. Intercountry adoptions, on the other hand, may take a year or more. For any type of
adoption, even after 1 child is found, you may have to wait weeks or months while final
arrangements are made.
(4) Complete the Legal Procedures: After a child is placed with you, you must fulfill the legal
requirements for adoption. Hiring an attorney may be necessary at this juncture, if you have not
retained one already.
Usually a child lives with the adoptive family for at least six months before the adoption is finalized
legally, although this post-placement interim varies according to State law and the conditions of the
child and family. During this period, the agency will provide supportive services, and the social
worker may visit frequently to ensure that the child is well cared for. After this period, the agency
will submit a written recommendation of approval of the adoption to the court, and-you or your
attorney can then file with the court to complete the adoption.
For intercountry adoptions, the child should be legally adopted in both his/her country of origin
and in a U.S. court This usually requires retaining a lawyer in both locations. Also, be aware
that the actual adoption procedure is just one of a series of legal processes required for intercountry
adoption; you must also fulfill the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service's requirements.
Independent Adoptions
Adoptions can sometimes be arranged without an agency, either between a pregnant woman and
the adoptive parents, or through an intermediary such as an attorney. This type of adoption is
illegal in some states and is strictly limited in most The adoptive parents usually pay the medical
and legal expenses incurred by both parties in an independent adoption. In addition, a home study
by a certified social worker is required in some states. Because there is a certain amount of risk
inherent in this type of adoption and state laws vary, it is recommended that before considering this
route you investigate the idea thoroughly with an attorney or the local public adoption agency.
Adoption Costs
The fees charged by adoption agencies will vary. Public agencies usually do not charge fees.
Private agency fees for infant adoptions range from $3,000 to over $10,000 for domestic
adoptions and from $3,500 to over $15,000 for intercountry adoptions. In addition to agency
fees, you may have to pay legal, medical, and transportation fees. However, usually no fee or
only & very moderate one is charged for adopting children with special needs.
How can I learn more about adoption?
Several good adoption handbooks are available in your public library or book store: some of these
publications are listed below. Adoptive parent support groups can also be helpful. They are listed
in the NAIC American Adoption Directory, along with other national organizations that can provide
more information.
10/16/96 WED 14:41 FAX
4
014
Attachment 4 to FPM Bulletin 792-46 (4)
Various organizations offer educational programs on adoption. Community colleges, "open" or
"storefront" universities, adoption agencies, some churches and local YMCAs or YWCAs may
offer such programs in your community. You can also call a local private or public adoption
agency to find out about such programs or to obtain informative publications produced by the
agency.
References and Resources
Bolles, Edmund Blair. The Penguin Adoption Handbook. New York: Viking Press (hardcover)
or Penguin (paperback), 1984.
Canape, Charlene. Adoption: Parenshood Wishow Pregnancy. New York: Henry Holt, 1986.
Gilman, Lois. The Adoption Resource Book. New York: Harper and Row, 1987.
Marindin, Hope. Handbook for Single Adoprive Parents. Chevy Chase, MD: Committee for
Single Adoptive Parents, 1987. (Available to single adopters only, for $8; write to P.O. Box
15084, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815.)
Melina. Lois. Raising Adopted Children: A Manual for Adoprive Parents. New York: Harper
and Row, 1986.
Plumez, Jacqueline Hornor. Successful Adoprion: A Guide to Finding a Child and Raising a
Family. New York: Harmony Books, 1987.
Resource Directories
Cole, Elizabeth. National Adoption Directory. Washington, D.C.: National Adoption
Information Clearinghouse. (Contains lists of adoption agencies by state, parent support groups,
adoption exchanges, and legal resources. To be published in March, 1989.)
Other Resources
The Child Welfare League of America is a national organization for child welfare advocacy,
education, and agency membership. It publishes materials on adoption. The 1986-1987 CWLA
Directory of Member Agencies Lists all affiliated agencies, and costs $14. Catalogs of publications
and audiovisual materials are free. Write to the CWLA Publications Department, 440 First Street,
NW, Suite 301, Washington, D.C., 20001.
The National Adoption Center refers families to agencies in their communities for home studies,
registers approved families and waiting children with special needs, and suggests matches of
families and children to appropriate agencies. It also provides information about special needs
adoption. Call (800) TO-ADOPT outside Pennsylvania, (215) 925-0200 in Pennsylvania; or write
to 1218 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107.
The National Committee for Adoption is an organization of private adoption agencies and
individuals interested in adoption. It accredits private agencies, monitors legal development in the
adoption field, gathers and disseminates statistics about adoption and counsels individuals and
agencies about pregnancy, infertility and adoption. Write to 1930 17th Street, NW, Washington,
D.C., 20009, or call (202) 328-1200.
10/16/96 WED 14:41 FAX
015
Attachment 4 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
(5)
The National Resource Censer on Special Needs Adoption provides publications, training, and
technical assistance to organizations and individuals on the adoption of special needs children.
Write to P.O. Box 337, Chelsea, MI, 48118, or call (313) 475-8693.
The North American Council on Adoptable Children is an association for adoptive parent support
groups nationwide. It also holds a national conference. It emphasizes waiting children in need of
adoption. P.O. Box 14808, Minneapolis, MN, 55514, (612) 625-0330.
OURS, Inc. is an adoptive parents support organization, promoting domestic and intercountry
adoption. 3307 Highway 110 North, #203, Minneapolis, MN, 55422. Membership is $16 per
year.
016
10/16/96 WED 14:41 FAX
Attachment 5 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
NATIONAL ADOPTION
INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE
SUBSIDIZED ADOPTION: A SOURCE OF HELP FOR CHILDREN WITH
SPECIAL NEEDS AND THEIR FAMILIES
In every State there are children with special needs waiting for adoptive families. In the past, most of these
children would wait forever. The costs of care and services were major obstacles to parents who would
otherwise adopt and love them. Adoption subsidies, also known as adoption assistance, remove the obstacles of
the past. Financial help and services are now available for children with special needs and their adoptive parents.
There are two major sources of adoption assistance: the Federal title IV-E program under the Social Security Act
and the States' programs which vary State by State. Each State's program is different and it is very important for
families interested in obtaining adoption subsidies to contact their local department of social services to
determine what is available in their State. The information presented below is divided under each question into
sections on the Federal IV-E program and the State programs.
What kind of financial help is available?
Federal IV-E Adoption Assistance Program
Under the Federal title IV.E adoption assistance program. payments to the parents of an eligible child are
available for the ordinary and special needs of the child Such payments are not designated for a specific purpose
such as medical expenses, maintenance (i.e., living expenses), or special services. The funds may be used for
any identifiable need of the child. The maximum payment may not, exceed the amount that would have been paid
for maintenance for that child if he were in a foster home.
A child for whom title IV-E adoption assistance is provided is automatically eligible for medical assistance under
title XIX (Medicaid) and for social services under the title XX plan in each State, as though he were an
AFDC recipient.
Payments can continue until the child reaches age 18, or until age 21 if the State determines continuation is
warranted, and they continue in the event the family moves to another State.
Adopting parents do not have to meet any financial eligibility criteria in order to receive adoption assistance for
the title IV-E eligible child. The parents may decide, however, not to receive money payments even though the
child is eligible. That decision would not imerfere with the child's eligibility for Medicaid or title XX services,
or the parents' eligibility for reimbursement of non-recurring adoption services.
In order for a child to be eligible for title IV.E Adoption Assistance, he or she must have been eligible for AFDC
or SSI programs under the Social Security Act before adoption.
State Adoption Subsidy Programs
State adoption subsidy programs provide assistance for children who are not eligible under the Federal IV-E
program. Adoption subsidies take various forms in the different States, depending upon the child's needs and
the State agency's program.
Operated By: CSR, Incorporated Suite 600, 1400 Eye Street NW Washington, D.C. 20005 202-842-7600
Funded By: Administration for Children, Youth, and Families U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
017
10/16/96 WED 14:42 FAX
Attachment 5 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
(2)
Under the State-funded programs, there are generally three types of adoption subsidies:
medical,
maintenance, and
special services
Medical subsidies cover some or all the costs related to a child's specific medical condition that are not covered
by the family's health insurance, as well as associated therapy, rehabilitation, and special education. Some States
provide medical assistance through Medicaid which also covers health care needs not covered by the adopting
family's health insurance policy.
Maintenance or support subsidies are direct payments to the adopting family to help cover the child's
living expenses.
Special service subsidies are usually one-time payments to cover a child's emergency or extraordinary need; less
often, they are repeated payments for services not covered by the medical or maintenance subsidies. It is
important to check with the State to determine what is an allowable cost.
Under both federal and State programs, adoptive parents of a child with special needs are eligible for a one-time
payment of non-recurring adoption expenses incurred in connection with adoption. Such expenses include
reasonable and necessary adoption fees, court costs, attorney fees, and other expenses directly related to the
legal adoption of the child with special needs.
How does the adopting family's financial status affect the subsidy?
Federal IV-E Program
Federal law does not require the financial status of the adoptive parents to be factor in determining the child's
eligibility for adoption subsidy under title IV-E. However, State agencies take into account the parent's
circumstances and the needs of the child when establishing the subsidy amount under the Federal program. The
State agency and adopting parents enter into an adoption assistance agreement that specifies the amount of
payment (if any) and other services available. The specific terms of the agreement may be readjusted with
concurrence of the adopting parents, as the child's needs change, the State agency's foster care maintenance
payments change, or the parents' circumstances change.
State Adoption Subsidy Programs
For State-funded subsidies, some States have income/means tests for prospective adoptive parents that determine
how much a family may receive. The State agency reviews each child's and parent's situation at the time of the
adoptive placement and usually on a yearly basis thereafter.
What if the adopting family disagrees with a State agency's decision to change the
type or amount of the child's subsidy?
Federal IV-E Program
Adoptive parents may appeal the agency's decision by using the State's fair hearing and appeal process.
Generally this means that the family files an appeal through the head of the local agency to the State title IV-E
agency. The local agency should be able to inform the family about steps in the State fair hearing process. The
family may wish to be represented by an attorney in this process or seek the advice of advocacy organizations
for children with special needs.
2
018
10/16/96 WED 14:42 FAX
Attachment 5 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
(3)
Adoptive parents may also contact the Program Operations Division, U.S. Children's Bureau. Administration
for Children, Youth, and Families, P.O. Box 1182, Washington, D.C. 20013 or (202) 755-7447 for advice on
an appeal for the IV-E program.
State Adoption Subsidy Programs
States differ in their appeals processes for State adoption subsidies. Families should ask the local agency director
about the existence of and steps in the State appeals process.
Are there any federal tax benefits available for families who adopt 2 child eligible for
adoption subsidies?
It is recommended that adoptive parents contact the IRS about tax exemptions and deductions for the child for
whom they receive adoption assistance.
Who are the children with special needs?
Each State agency has its own definition of "special needs" used to identify children eligible for adoption
subsidies. Generally, the child's special needs relate to age (an older child): membership in a minority group; a
medical condition (e.g., chronic illness); siblings (brothers and sisters who should not be separated); or
handicaps (a child with a physical, emotional, or mental disability). Some children have more than one special
need; all must be legally free for adoption. Most of the children have experienced unusual stresses: some have
been abused, neglected, or abandoned. Each child needs a permanent, caring family who can help him or her
feel accepted, valued and wanted.
How does a family apply for an adoption subsidy?
When it is determined that the child is "a child with special needs", the possibility of an adoption subsidy is
discussed with the prospective adoptive parents. Most children registered with agencies as having special needs
have already been classified as eligible for subsidies. Once a petition for adoption has been filed, a final
determination of the child's eligibility under title IV-E or the State program is made. The family applies for the
subsidy to the State agency, through the local office. A determination is made and an adoption assistance
agreement is signed that specifies the types of subsidy to be provided. This usually should be done before
placement and must be done before finalization of the adoption Each State has its own regulations for a State-
only subsidy as well as the procedures to be followed for title IV-E adoption assistance.
Can foster parents apply to adopt an eligible child?
Yes. A majority of special needs children for adoption subsidies are adopted by their foster parents. This option
is often considered by the State to be in the child's best interests because emotional des are already established.
The foster parents, following approval as adoptive parents, enter into an adoption assistance agreement with the
State agency if a subsidy is requested. Foster parents can also apply to adopt a child with special needs who is
not already in foster care placement with them.
3
019
10/16/96 WED 14:42 FAX
Attachment 5 to FPM Bulletin 792-46
(4)
What kinds of services are available for the child and the adopting family?
Federal IV-E Program
Under title IV-E, the child is eligible for any social service that is available to an AFDC-eligible child under the
State's title XX program. These services may include counseling, legal, pre- and post-adoption, information and
referral or transportation services. Each State's title XX program is different and families should check with the
State agency to determine what services are available. Also, additional services may be available that are not
provided by title XX or Medicaid, but these must be specified in the adoption assistance agreement.
In the event that an adoptive family moves from one State to another, if a needed service specified in the
adoption assistance agreement is not available in the new State of residence, the State making the original IV-E
adoption assistance payment remains financially responsible for providing the specified service.
State Adoption Subsidy Programs
For children receiving State-only subsidies the specific services to be provided are included in the agreement.
How do parents who have already adopted a child with special needs feel about the
adoption subsidy program?
Studies show that the vast majority of parents are satisfied with the program. In one study, most parents
interviewed said that they would consider adopting another special needs child; those who said they would not
cited their age or the size of their family as reasons-not dissatisfaction with the program or the child.
Further, studies have shown that neither the adopting parents nor the adopted children attached a stigma to the
receipt of adoption assistance. Additionally, most parents interviewed in the study reported that the agency
social worker was adequately informed about community resources, eligibility requirements for subsidy.
approval, review and recertification procedures, and legal issues on assisted adoption. Approximately 70 percent
said that more information and activities for parents after adoption would be useful, such as parent support
groups.
A California study found that ninety percent of the parents indicated their overall satisfaction with the program
by responding that they would definitely encourage friends interested in adopting to participate in the program.
This article was written by Cynthia Ragan, M.S.W.
WU.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING orr 260-571,00007
4
020
10/16/96 WED 14:43 FAX
Attachment 3
MATERIALS PROVIDED AT THE OCTOBER 17 SEMINAR ON ADOPTION
1. ADOPTION PRIMER. Provides information about the adoption process and
suggests agencies and resources on adoption.
2. WAYS TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL ADOPTION WEEK. Lists a dozen ways to celebrate
National Adoption Week.
3. NATIONAL ADOPTION INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE CATALOG. A catalog of
adoption publications and services available from the Clearinghouse.
4. THE ADMINISTRATION'S LEGISLATIVE PROPOSAL. A fact sheet describing the
Administration's legislative proposal to reimburse Federal employees
for adoption expenses. Copies of the proposed legislation are also
available.
5. ADOPTION RESOURCES IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA AREA. A listing of
adoption resources in the District of Columbia taken from the National
Adoption Directory, including public and private adoption agencies,
adoption exchanges, photo listings, and adoptive parent support
groups. (Agencies may request resource lists for up to four states.)
6. SAMPLE FLYER FOR LUNCHTIME ADOPTION AWARENESS PROGRAM.
7. SAMPLE NEWSLETTER STORY ABOUT NATIONAL ADOPTION WEEK.
8. SAMPLE FLYER PROMOTING NATIONAL ADOPTION WEEK.
The materials listed above, as well as several fact sheets on adoption
similar to those included in attachments 4 and 5 of the FPM bulletin,
may be obtained by calling HHS's National Adoption Information Clearinghouse
at 202-842-1919.
10/16/96 WED 14:43 FAX
021
Attachment 2
SAMPLE
AGENCY HEAD STATEMENT ENCOURAGING ADOPTION AWARENESS
As our nation looks toward Thanksgiving Day, we realize that there is much for which
we are thankful If we were to make a list, our families would most certainly be at the top.
This Thanksgiving Day there will be thousands of children celebrating the holiday with their
adoptive families for the first time. These children have a very special reason to be thankful.
Now they can share their love with a family that wants them and is thankful for them. But,
there are thousands more children who are waiting to be adopted.
President Bush has issued a proclamation declaring the week of November 19-25 as
National Adoption Week. I am pleased that here at
, we have
planned [list activities here]. I encourage you to participate.
As part of the Administration's initiative encouraging adoption and foster parenting,
the President has asked agency heads to develop methods of supporting the adoption plans and
needs of their employees and for promoting adoption awareness among the Federal workforce.
I am committed to carrying out the President's request.
More families are needed to give our most vulnerable children the adoptive homes they
so justly deserve. An increased awareness of all Americans about our waiting children will
result in more families opening up their hearts and homes to these children. It is my hope that
the National Adoption Week activities here at the Agency will help some of these children
bring their special love to a family they can call their own.
Through our
Office you can find out about resources
available to assist you in learning more about the adoption process. Also, supervisors are
encouraged to be as flexible as possible with employees in the process of adopting or caring
for a newly adopted child so that leave needs can be met There are personnel programs and
policies in place in the federal workplace that can/assist employees who are considering
adopting. Please contact
in the
Office (phone:
-
) for more information.
I would like to end with a personal request. I invite those of you who have experienced
the wonderful rewards of adoption to become "adoption ambassadors" within the Agency.
Please share your experiences and offer your support to others who are seriously considering
adoption.
Through our efforts and those of many other Americans, when Thanksgiving Day arrives
next year there will be thousands of new adoptive families celebrating together.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving and Adoption Week
s/ Agency,Head
Wendy Far
POSSIBLE ADOPTION ACTIONS
September 12, 1996
GOAL 1: Increase the adoption placement rate for hard-to-
place children. Set numerical targets for the number of children
with special needs who are adopted over the next three years to
be doubled. This would eliminate the backlog of waiting
children.
ACTIONS:
1.
Goal-oriented Planning and Technical Assistance. Work with
states that commit to meet numerical targets by providing
technical assistance on the development of outcome measures
and automated data systems to help reach these goals.
Estimated cost: $10 million/year.
2.
Non-financial Incentives for Improved Performance.
Recognize successful states through special commendations or
White House events and foster competition by issuing an
annual state-by-state report card.
3.
Financial Incentives. Increase reimbursement for adoption
subsidies for special needs adoptions by $1,000 in states
that reach or come within 5% of reaching of the annual
target. Estimated cost: $50 to $75 million over 3 years.
Raise federal match to states for recruiting adoptive
families from 50% to 75%. Estimated cost: $150 million
over 3 years, assuming states continue to spend at current
levels for recruitment.
GOAL 2: Find permanent homes for waiting children within one
year of entering the child welfare system.
ACTIONS:
1.
Statutory Changes. Under current law, states are required
to hold a dispositional hearing 18 months after a child has
been placed in foster care. Develop legislation to shorten
that period to 12 months.
2.
Regulatory Changes. Currently, the federal government
requires that "reasonable efforts" be made to prevent
placement and reunify families before a parent's rights can
be legally terminated. Clarify and expand definition of
reasonable efforts so that it allows arrangement for a
permanent home for a child in a timely manner.
1
Change "dispositional hearings" to "permanency planning"
hearings by clarifying that planning can include referrals
for termination of parental rights or to legal guardianship
or other permanent placement.
3.
Financial Assistance. Make funds available through the
Adoption Opportunities Act to states for a "Removing
Barriers to Permanency Project" to identify barriers,
propose and implement solutions, and target funds to place
children who have been waiting particularly long times and
to implement the Multi-Ethnic Placement Act. Estimated
cost: $30 million.
GOAL 3: Increase public awareness of the benefits of adoption.
Undertake a high visibility education and awareness campaign and
promote "adoption-friendly" policies in the public and private
sectors.
ACTIONS:
1.
Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to lead a
public awareness effort, including public service
announcements, use of the internet, and the appointment of a
high-profile advisory council with members chosen for their
ability to represent and work with various "sectors" of the
community (e.g., faith community, business, entertainment
industry, etc.)
2.
Direct the Secretary of the Treasury to disseminate
information about tax benefits and other adoption benefits.
3.
Direct the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to
promote adoption among Federal employees and make the
Federal government a model of adoption-friendly policies.
This would include: (1) developing legislation to create a
new category of leave benefits for Federal employees to
provide 5 days of paid leave for adoptive parents and an
additional 5 days for parents who adopt children with
special needs (in addition to current leave benefits) ; (2)
developing legislation to reimburse Federal employees if
they adopt a child (proposed during the Bush Administration
but not passed) : and (3) directing all agencies to provide
information and support (e.g., a bank of federal employees
who have adopted to act as mentors for prospective adoptive
parents)
4.
Direct the Secretaries of Labor and Commerce to identify and
recognize model adoption-friendly policies in the private
sector.
2
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF THE FIRST LADY
TO
Wendy Jacobson
FROM
Jennifer Mein
FAX #
690-6562
PHONE #
#
OF PAGES (including cover)
COMMENTS
Here 1) the document. I wanted to
point out that Goal I 15 no
longer for special needs children only.
This was OMB'S suggestion. Also, T
know you are working some things
Out with OMB on the pieces that cost
$ . Keep me posted as they change.
I forgot to mention on the phone- -
in addition to the Exec. Order and the
proposed regs, I think We need a
longer description of each proposal. what it
is, how it will work, LOSA estimates etc.
Please call with any questions /problems.
I need drafts by COB Friday . Thanks.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
09-Oct-1996 09:16am
TO:
Jennifer L. Klein
FROM:
Jeremy D. Benami
Domestic Policy Council
CC:
Carol H. Rasco
CC:
Lyndell Hogan
SUBJECT:
RE: Adoption Update
Jen
I just spoke a bit with Carol about #2 on your list. She flagged
for us that we should explore with OMB the cost estimates around
any statutory or regulatory moves in this direction. I think your
subsequent note that the 1 year would be a goal is helpful but
we need to be sure that OMB/CBO would not score additional costs
associated with this. We just need to be sure that there isn't
hidden in this idea some additional costs that the states will
have to bear (or federal costs for that matter) that may limit our
ability to propose other initiatives later.
The regulatory change in the definition of reasonable effort might
even be a cost saver since it could mean less time in foster care
for some kids - freeing up $ for other services on the front end.
Either way, it would be helpful to ensure that we know the budget
implications of these moves and how those impact the CW system as
a whole.
Question: do you have to do a statutory change if the one year is
just going to be a goal?
ADOPTION ACTIONS
GOAL 1: Increase the adoption placement rate for hard-to-place children. Set
numerical targets to double the number of children who are adopted over the next three
years. This would eliminate the backlog of waiting children.
ACTIONS:
1.
Goal-oriented Planning and Technical Assistance. Work with states that commit to
meet numerical targets by providing technical assistance on the development of
outcome measures and automated data systems to help reach these goals. Estimated
cost: $10 million/year.
2.
Non-financial Incentives for Improved Performance. Recognize successful states
through special commendations or White House events and foster competition by
Setting
goals
issuing an annual state-by-state report card.
double
#
of
3.
kids
Financial Incentives. Increase reimbursement for adoption subsidies for special
receiving
needs adoptions by $1,000 in states that reach or come within 5% of reaching of the
adoption
annual target. Estimated cost: $50 to $75 million over 3 years.
assistance
Raise federal match to states for recruiting adoptive families from 50% to 75%.
R getting people
Estimated cost: $150 million over 3 years, assuming states continue to spend at
current levels for recruitment.
on assissance.
GOAL 2: Find permanent homes for waiting children within one year of entering the
child welfare system.
ACTIONS:
1.
Statutory Changes. Under current law, states are required to hold a dispositional
hearing 18 months after a child has been placed in foster care. Develop legislation
to shorten that period to 12 months and require administrative hearings every six
months.
2.
Regulatory Changes. Currently, the federal government requires that "reasonable
efforts" be made to prevent placement and reunify families before a parent's rights
can be legally terminated. Clarify and expand definition of reasonable efforts so that
it allows arrangement for a permanent home for a child in a timely manner.
Change "dispositional hearings" to "permanency planning" hearings by clarifying
that planning can include referrals for termination of parental rights or to legal
guardianship or other permanent placement.
1
3.
Financial Assistance. Make funds available through the Adoption Opportunities Act
to states for a "Removing Barriers to Permanency Project" to identify barriers,
propose and implement solutions, and target funds to place children who have been
waiting particularly long times and to implement the Multi-Ethnic Placement Act.
Estimated cost: $30 million.
GOAL 3: Increase public awareness of the benefits of adoption. Undertake a high
visibility education and awareness campaign and promote "adoption-friendly" policies in the
public and private sectors.
ACTIONS:
1.
Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to lead a public awareness effort,
including public service announcements, use of the internet, and the appointment of
a high-profile advisory council with members chosen for their ability to represent
and work with various "sectors" of the community (e.g., faith community, business,
entertainment industry, etc.).
2.
Direct the Secretary of the Treasury to disseminate information about tax benefits
and other adoption benefits.
3.
Direct the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to promote adoption
among Federal employees and make the Federal government a model of adoption-
friendly policies.
This would include: (1) developing legislation to reimburse Federal employees if
they adopt a child (proposed during the Bush Administration but not passed): and
(2) directing all agencies to provide information and support (e.g., a bank of federal
employees who have adopted to act as mentors for prospective adoptive parents).
4.
Direct the Secretaries of Labor and Commerce to identify and recognize model
adoption-friendly policies in the private sector.
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ADOPTION ACTIONS
GOAL 1: Increase the adoption placement rate for hard-to-place children. Set
numerical targets to double the number of children who are adopted over the next three
years. This would eliminate the backlog of waiting children.
ACTIONS:
1.
Goal-oriented Planning and Technical Assistance. Work with states that commit to
meet numerical targets by providing technical assistance on the development of
outcome measures and automated data systems to help reach these goals. Estimated
cost: $10 million/year.
2.
Non-financial Incentives for Improved Performance. Recognize successful states
through special commendations or White House events and foster competition by
issuing an annual state-by-state report card.
3.
Financial Incentives. Increase reimbursement for adoption subsidies for special
needs adoptions by $1,000 in states that reach or come within 5% of reaching of the
annual target. Estimated cost: $50 to $75 million over 3 years.
Raise federal match to states for recruiting adoptive families from 50% to 75%.
Estimated cost: $150 million over 3 years, assuming states continue to spend at
current levels for recruitment.
GOAL 2: Find permanent homes for waiting children within one year of entering the
child welfare system.
ACTIONS:
1.
Statutory Changes. Under current law, states are required to hold a dispositional
hearing 18 months after a child has been placed in foster care. Develop legislation
to shorten that period to 12 months and require administrative hearings every six
months.
2.
Regulatory Changes. Currently, the federal government requires that "reasonable
efforts" be made to prevent placement and reunify families before a parent's rights
can be legally terminated. Clarify and expand definition of reasonable efforts so that
it allows arrangement for a permanent home for a child in a timely manner.
Change "dispositional hearings" to "permanency planning" hearings by clarifying
that planning can include referrals for termination of parental rights or to legal
guardianship or other permanent placement.
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3.
Financial Assistance. Make funds available through the Adoption Opportunities Act
to states for a "Removing Barriers to Permanency Project" to identify barriers,
propose and implement solutions, and target funds to place children who have been
waiting particularly long times and to implement the Multi-Ethnic Placement Act.
Estimated cost: $30 million.
GOAL 3: Increase public awareness of the benefits of adoption. Undertake a high
visibility education and awareness campaign and promote "adoption-friendly" policies in the
public and private sectors.
ACTIONS:
1.
Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to lead a public awareness effort,
including public service announcements, use of the internet, and the appointment of
a high-profile advisory council with members chosen for their ability to represent
and work with various "sectors" of the community (e.g., faith community, business,
entertainment industry, etc.).
2.
Direct the Secretary of the Treasury to disseminate information about tax benefits
and other adoption benefits.
3.
Direct the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to promote adoption
among Federal employees and make the Federal government a model of adoption-
friendly policies.
This would include: (1) developing legislation to reimburse Federal employees if
they adopt a child (proposed during the Bush Administration but not passed): and
(2) directing all agencies to provide information and support (e.g., a bank of federal
employees who have adopted to act as mentors for prospective adoptive parents).
4.
Direct the Secretaries of Labor and Commerce to identify and recognize model
adoption-friendly policies in the private sector.
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