Learning from Other States: Child Welfare Advocacy in Washington State

[from Dana Mandolesi, HEY Project Manager 9/7/09]

The Mockingbird Society advocates for foster youth in Washington State.  The mission of The Mockingbird Society is to recognize and celebrate our most undervalued children — those in the Child Welfare System. We envision a world in which the intrinsic value of our most vulnerable children and youth is protected and nourished.

In California, we have experienced many successes, although we still have a long way to go.  Sometimes, it is important to reflect on best practices in other states and locations.  The Mockingbird Society has a Legislative Agenda for Washington State, which can be found at http://www.mockingbirdsociety.org/files/articles/2009%20Legislative%20Agenda.pdf.  Like California, they are also advocating for Washington to opt into some components of  the Federal Fostering Connections to Success Act.  See their arguments and what thtey are supporting in order to understand a wider scope of child welfare policy across states, and more information about their activities at www.mockingbirdsociety.org.

Related posts:

1. New Resource: Online Clearinghouse for State Child Welfare Policies
2. Leadership and Child Welfare Systems: The Role of State Legislators
3. State Policy – California Child Welfare Council and The Foster Youth Issues Forum
4. Three States Approved For Kinship-Guardianship Option, 11 More Pending
5. Cultural and Linguistic Competency in the Child Welfare System: State Strategies