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Theory of Change

At Project Family First, we envision a future where every child, regardless of race, grows up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from the disparities plaguing our child welfare system. Our theory of change is a structured framework that guides our efforts to reduce the overrepresentation of Black children in the Oregon foster care system and create a safe and equitable environment for all children and families in our state.
African American girl learning robotic with a program computer.

Assumptions

Inequities in Child Welfare:

We recognize that there are systemic inequities within the Oregon child welfare system that disproportionately affect Black children. Racial and class-based biases and inadequate policies, procedures, and practices drive these disparities.

Inequities in Child Welfare:

We recognize that there are systemic inequities within the Oregon child welfare system that disproportionately affect Black children. Racial and class-based biases and inadequate policies, procedures, and practices drive these disparities.

Empowerment through Resources:

We believe that providing culturally informed resources and support to Black families and communities is a powerful way to address these disparities. By empowering families and communities, we can prevent child removals due to issues rooted in poverty, offer alternatives to foster care and improve the overall child welfare experience.

Advocacy and Awareness:

We acknowledge that change requires awareness and advocacy. To create systemic change, we must raise awareness about the issues within the child welfare system, advocate for policy changes, and work collaboratively with stakeholders.

Our Approach

Culturally Informed Resources and Support:

Our primary approach is to provide culturally informed resources and support to Black families and communities. This means offering referrals to resources that respect the cultural values and needs of each family.

Educational Initiatives:

We believe that knowledge is power. Educating families about their rights within the child welfare system empowers them to navigate the system more effectively and understand the support available to them.

Collaboration:

We partner with government agencies, community organizations, and individuals who share our vision for change. We can leverage collective efforts to create a more equitable child welfare system by fostering partnerships and alliances.

Expected Outcomes

Reduction in Overrepresentation:

We anticipate a decrease in the overrepresentation of Black children in the Oregon foster care system as families receive the support they need to overcome systemic barriers.

Policy Reform:

Our advocacy efforts seek to influence policy changes that make the child welfare system more equitable and just for all families.

Prevention of Child Removal:

We aim to prevent unnecessary child separations, keeping families together by addressing implicit bias.

Community Empowerment:

We strive to empower communities and individuals to become advocates for change, building a support network that extends beyond our organization.

Continuous Improvement, Learning, and Adaptation

We recognize that change is an ongoing process. We commit to continuous learning, adaptation, and responsiveness to the evolving needs of the families we serve and the child welfare system we seek to reform.
At Project Family First, our theory of change serves as the guiding compass for our mission. By providing culturally informed resources and support, we aim to break down the barriers perpetuating Black children’s overrepresentation in foster care and contribute to a future where every child in Oregon can thrive in a safe and equitable environment.
Concentrated black schoolboy sitting at desk in school and learning to write in copybook with pencil

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Assistance in Accessing Community Resources and Services:
We provide referrals to culturally informed resources, empowering them with knowledge and the ability to access needed resources. We also believe in the importance of preserving cultural heritage and strengthening the bonds within the community. Our cultural connections services assist foster youth and families in reconnecting with their roots and heritage.
Advocacy and Equity Promotion:

We actively work to drive policy and system changes to combat the overrepresentation of Black children in the Oregon foster care system. Our advocacy efforts aim to create lasting, systemic change that benefits all children in Oregon.

Support for parents as they navigate child welfare:
We understand that facing the foster care system can be daunting. Our organization provides personalized support, guidance and advocacy to parents and caregivers, helping them understand the intricacies of the system and access the resources needed to keep their children out of foster care or facilitate a safe return home.
Educational Workshops:
These services would be designed to increase awareness of the disproportionate representation of Black children in the Oregon foster care system and provide culturally competent resources and support to families and communities.