Program Profiles - Central Council Tlingit Haida Indian Tribes of ...

Program PurposeThe Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is federal law whichprotects and maintains the integrity and rights of Alaska Nativechildren, their families or custodians and tribes in involuntarycustody proceedings.The program’s mission is to ensure that the tribe’s interest inchildren is protected if removal of an Indian child from their homeby the State of Alaska Offi ce of Children’s Services becomesnecessary. Minimum federal standards established by ICWArequire state courts comply when an Alaska Native child is takeninto state custody.Program DescriptionThe Tribal Family & Youth Services (TFYS) ICWA Programprovides case management services to children and parents orguardians in communities served.Case management services include intervening and attendingcourt hearings, case staffings and meetings; conductingsupervised visitations and home visits; scheduling Family GroupDecision Making meetings when necessary; conducting familysearches and identifying potential relative placements; recruitingNative foster homes, and assisting in providing direct servicesto families such as counseling and making referrals to othersupport services that will further enhance the quality of lives ofour children and families.Communities Served• Craig• Haines• Juneau• Klawock• Saxman• WrangellICWA applies to Indian children under the age of 19. ICWAapplies to involuntary custody proceedings and does not apply tocustody disputes between parents.Client ServicesIndian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)Program Profiles26