Insights and Innovation
Get insights on emerging trends in child welfare and family services. See how innovations across systems are advancing family well-being.
Lightbulb Moment: The Time is Now to Re-Evaluate Mandated Reporting Procedures
Delve into the complexities of mandated reporting in our article. We focus on CAPTA to explore the idea of how policies may inadvertently harm families, offering insights
into alternative approaches like ‘mandatory supporter.’ We advocate for evidence-based strategies to enhance child welfare, inviting collaboration towards impactful change.
Light Paper: Addiction
Dive into the complexities of addiction, challenging stigmas and shedding light on racial disparities. This exploration reveals alarming statistics on substance use disorders, emphasizing the urgency for evidence-based interventions. Personal stories underscore the importance of empathy, fostering a shift towards preventive solutions. Discover resources and support for those navigating the challenges of addiction in North Carolina.
Lightbulb Moment: Benefits of Budgeting for Families
In recent years, amid the reality of many US Americans living paycheck to paycheck, managing financial control through budgeting and financial literacy has been a priority. Budgeting involves tracking monthly income and expenditures i.e. rent, mortgage, utilities, and car payments. Whether through an app, spreadsheet, or notebook, budgeting raises awareness of spending habits and reveals opportunities for improved money management. Though finances can be overwhelming, budgeting can provide families with a sense of control and financial empowerment.
Introducing the Center for Learning and Light Lab
The Center for Learning and Light Lab are dedicated to enhancing family well-being through versatile training opportunities and online educational resources. Our learner-driven programs provide comprehensive learning experiences. Explore our resources on child welfare conversations and family topics.
Light Paper: Poverty Versus Neglect In North Carolina
This Light Paper issue reviews neglect criteria. See the impact of prioritizing family support over separation. This issue reviews differences in monitoring and reporting in child welfare. Explore practical steps that promote fairness and kindness while protecting children from harm and helping families.
Shining Stars of Family Well-Being: Meet the 2023 Family Champion Award Recipients
Meet the champions for family who were celebrated at the 2023 Family Champion Awards during the reTHINK Permanency: Unlocking Pathways from Foster Care to Family Conference on June 15. These social workers were honored for their dedication to family and the difference they are making in North Carolina communities. Discover their incredible stories and see their words of wisdom.
Eight Steps To Building Trust-based Funder-Grantee Partnerships
See topical highlights from guests on The Future of Funding: Cultivating Community Partnerships webinar. Get insights on fueling community leadership and innovation through collaborative partnerships. Access the webinar conversation on the Institute for Family website.
Four Tips on How To Use Storytelling In Your Work
Tips from the Unbelievably Resilient team on how organizations can leverage storytelling in their work with authenticity, while honoring storytellers with lived expertise in navigating various systems–foster care, child welfare, mental health, judicial, and etc.
Three Reasons Listening is Essential in the Work of Supporting Families
Lessons learned from the Seen Out Loud podcast on what it takes to be a good listener and how listening with intent can be the first step towards change. Listening with open minds, acknowledgment of one’s humanity, and the desire to learn can serve as a building block for developing lasting solutions for families.
Planting the Seed: How One Mother’s Experiences with the Child Welfare System Inspired A Growing Parent Ally Movement
When Brenda Lopez lost her two children to Washington State Child Protective Services, her journey to get them back inspired a parent ally movement to help keep families together that is now spreading across the country.