A15 Introduction to Resource Family Approval

Kendra Elmendorf; Kim Wrigley

In 2017; California implemented the Resource Family Approval (RFA) Program. RFA is a unified; family friendly and child-centered process created to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes and approving relatives and non-relative extended family members as foster-care providers; as well as approving families for legal guardianship or adoption. The RFA Program eliminates duplication; coordinates approval standards and provides a comprehensive assessment of all families; to expedite permanency for children and youth served by the Child Welfare and Juvenile Probation Departments. This training aims to orient participants to the RFA Program and explore ways participants can support families and youth impacted by RFA through their professional roles.