The goal of this paper is to synthesize available data to help guide policy and programmatic initiatives for families with substance abuse problems who are involved with the child welfare system, and identify gaps in the research base preventing further refinement of practices in this area. To date, Family Treatment Drug Court and newly developed…

Nonprofit family-run organizations, such as Tennessee Voices for Children (TVC), are providing leadership in advocating for and delivering services to children and families in need. Utilizing a family-driven approach and a staff partially comprised of parent-professionals, TVC's Nashville Connection and Family Connection programs have strengthened…

Synthesizes articles in this special issue, highlighting the increasing public policy response to connecting child welfare and substance abuse services that will simultaneously serve children and their families affected by substance abuse. Considers challenges faced by these cooperative efforts, including the need to improve administrative data,…

Presents follow-up data on 29 youths and their families served by the Court Related Youth Services, which combines placement of problem youths in short-term foster homes with outreach efforts to engage families in family counseling. Results demonstrate positive feedback by parents and a reduction in the number of youths needing institutional…

Describes a collaborative, multidisciplinary developmental follow-up program for infants and toddlers who have been in out-of-home care. The program builds on the community-based family support model described in the Family to Family Foster Care Reform Initiative. Highlights the children's health and developmental status and program effectiveness.…