January 1, 2008

Giving the Family a Chance: Working Towards Reunification

This article, written by Lisette Austin, first appeared in the fall edition of The Connection published by the National CASA Association. The goal of reunifying foster children with their biological families is discussed and strategies Court Appointed Special Advocates can implement to support reunification are described. The need for reunification to be a priority is emphasized and tips for advocates are given in the areas of assessment and case planning, engaging the family through facilitation, advocacy and monitoring, and concurrent planning. Resources on reunification are listed, as well as questions the court should ask to determine if reasonable efforts for reunification have been made.