Policy Briefs

Integrated Materials

Brief No. 24 — Family Strengthening Writ Large: On Becoming a Nation That Promotes Strong Families and Successful Youth

This new brief from the Family Strengthening Policy Center suggests “macro” strategies for changing the culture, from one that may “value” family but which has practices and policies that do not reflect that value.  Family Strengthening Writ Large is intended as a high-level synthesis of what we have learned through researching a variety of specific topics.  Further, it is intended to spark discussion and from that to move us to focusing on how we can, individually and collectively, and in partnership with low-income families, help make the family fundamentals a strong reality for the vast majority of families. Read full brief»

Brief No. 18 — Family Strengthening at the Tipping Point: Emerging Transformation in the Human Services Field

A major transformation in the human services community is underway. At both the national and community levels, human services organizations are integrating place-based, family-strengthening approaches into their policies, programs, and practices. This brief describes these advances using the results of a 2006 study conducted by the Family Strengthening Policy Center. Read full brief»

Brief No. 1 — Introduction to Family Strengthening

The Annie E Casey Foundation defines family strengthening as a deliberate process of giving parents the necessary opportunities, relationships, networks, and supports to raise their children successfully, which includes involving parents as decision-makers in how their communities meet family needs. The family strengthening approach is a framework for serving children and families that is rooted in the following principles: Family is the most fundamental factor influencing the lives and outcomes of children & Families are strong when they are supported by safe and thriving neighborhoods.  While family strengthening programs, interventions and services vary common characteristics that can be found across all human services: Family-Centered; Place-based; Collaborative; Focused on Family Self Sufficiency; Accountable to Families: and Preventative and Promotional. Read full brief»