This guide is designed to support administrative leaders in states and other jurisdictions in using data to assess and identify ways to improve their service array.

Explore how independent verification and validation services for title IV-E agencies are used for child welfare information systems projects.

Learn about various instruments used to measure well-being for program, case planning, and evaluation purposes.

Explore how data reported in AFCARS about youth who run away from state custody can be used to inform interventions.

Use this guide for tips, and strategies concerning the critical role leadership plays in creating and sustaining positive organizational culture.

Learn the importance of effective, ongoing collaboration between child welfare agencies and community-based partners.

Learn about Catherine’s journey recovering from trauma and addiction to be successfully reunified with her daughter.

Learn about the identified five dimensions of capacity, browse examples of each, and find out why each dimension is important to an organization.

Learn effective strategies to collect, analyze, and use data related to caseworker visits.

Provides concise information on the organization of the Coping With Disasters and Strengthening Systems series resources and offers suggestions for using the resources alone or together to help agencies develop, refine, and implement effective disaster plans.

Browse the “Leading Your Agency Through a Disaster” tip sheet to see how common elements of child welfare leadership can be adapted for effective disaster management and an example of action during each phase of disaster management.

Build foundational knowledge about disaster planning, response, and recovery; see examples of real-life strategies from jurisdictions around the country; and begin the process of planning to effectively respond to any disaster. 

Get guidance for completing the CQI self-assessment instrument, see suggested sources for local assessment data, and learn to rate assessment results.

​Learn from people with lived experience about the impact of kinship care on children in the child welfare system.

The Center for States’ virtual Exhibit Hall booth features several products that focus on workforce development, including a variety of publications, videos, and learning experiences to help agencies foster healthy and supportive environments for child welfare professionals.