The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) works in partnership with families and communities to keep children safe from abuse and neglect. When parents cannot ensure the safety of children in their home, DCF provides out-of-home care based on the child’s individual needs. The case review process guides decisions made on behalf of children in DCF custody. You can volunteer your time to help foster children in the Commonwealth. Your time will help a family in need of community support.
The Foster Care Review Unit makes decisions regarding children who are placed in foster care for six months or longer, assessing how well their needs are being met and what progress has been made toward establishing them in a permanent living situation. A Volunteer from the Community is one member of the 3-person panels that make these decisions.
To date, there are over 9000 children placed in care throughout the state. The need for the communities' engagement in helping the Department make decisions on behalf of children in care is ever-present. If possible, I would like to discuss recruitment opportunities within your organization. It could be as simple as sharing the accompanied flyer within your network.
Please note, DCF continues to conduct Foster Care Reviews remotely. Additional information about the Volunteer Case Review Program can also be found more here: https://www.mass.gov/dcf-foster-care-review-volunteer and the online application here: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-to-be-a-volunteer-case-reviewer.
