Independent Living Program - Florida's Center for Child Welfare
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2010<strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>A Guide to a List of Resources(As of August 2010)Chapters 1 - 10*Some of the resources in the guide book are resources shared from various agencies and are notendorsed by DCF, but can be used and shared as innovative practices from around the state.

Table of Contents2010Chapters01 - Resource List.......................................................... 302 - Statewide <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Contacts.......... 703 - Quality Assurance.............................................. 2304 - CBC Contracts.................................................... 4305 - OPPAGA and Auditor GeneralReviews and Reports................................ 6906 - <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Spending Plans.............. 10507 - <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> ServicesAdvisory Council..................................... 11308 - <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Redesign......................... 12709 - National Youth in Transition Database........... 14910 - Florida Safe Families Network.......................... 153

Chapter 01Resource List

Federal ResourcesResource ListDepartment of Health and Human Services, Administration <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families, <strong>Child</strong>ren’s Bureauwebsite is available online at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/laws_policies/index.htm#cwpmNational Resources <strong>Center</strong> <strong>for</strong> Youth Development is available online at http://www.nrcyd.ou.edu/.State Laws, Rules, and PoliciesFlorida Statutes: Florida Statutes are available online at: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/ See Chapter 39, F.S. (Education, Permanency, Case Planning, Judicial Review) See Section 409.1451, F.S. (<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>) See Section 409.903, F.S. (Medicaid) See Section 1009.25(2)(c), F.S. (Tuition and Fee Exemption)Florida Administrative Codes: Florida Administrative Codes are available online at: https://www.flrules.org/ See Chapter 65C‐9, F.A.C. – Alien <strong>Child</strong>ren See Chapter 65C‐13, F.A.C. – Substitute Care of <strong>Child</strong>ren See Chapter 65C‐14, F.A.C. – Group Care See Chapter 65C‐15, F.A.C. – <strong>Child</strong>‐Placing Agencies See Chapter 65C‐16, F.A.C. – Adoptions See Chapter 65C‐17, F.A.C. – Master Trust See Chapter 65C‐19, F.A.C. – Certification of Public Agency Funds as Title IV‐E Match (Local MatchProcess) See Chapter 65C‐27, F.A.C. – Suitability Assessments See Chapter 65C‐28, F.A.C. – Out‐of‐Home Care See Chapter 65C‐29, F.A.C. – Protective Investigations See Chapter 65C‐30, F.A.C. – General Provisions See Chapter 65C‐31, F.A.C. – Services to Young Adults Formerly in Foster Care Rulemaking activitiesspecific to <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> are available online at:http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/childwelfare/rule_development.shtml See Chapter 65C‐32, F.A.C. – Parenting Course <strong>for</strong> Divorcing Parents in the State of Florida See Chapter 65C‐33, F.A.C. – <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> Training and Certification See Chapter 65C‐34, F.A.C. – Missing <strong>Child</strong>ren See Chapter 65C‐35, F.A.C. – Psychotropic Medications See Chapter 65C‐36, F.A.C. – <strong>Child</strong> DeathDepartment Memorandums Family Safety memos are available online at:http://center<strong>for</strong>childwelfare.fmhi.usf.edu/kb/policymemos/Forms/AllItems.aspx ACCESS Florida memos are available online at:http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/access/esspolicymanual.shtml1

FormsForms are available online at: http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/dcf<strong>for</strong>ms/Search/DCFFormSearch.aspxQuality AssuranceQuality of Practice Standards: QA Quality of Practice Standards are available online at:http://center<strong>for</strong>childwelfare.fmhi.usf.edu/qa/QA_Docs/StandardsCM‐2010JulFinal.pdf CBC QA reports are available online at:http://center<strong>for</strong>childwelfare.fmhi.usf.edu/qa/QA_Reports/Forms/AllItems.aspxIL Special Review: IL Special Review reports are available online at:http://center<strong>for</strong>childwelfare.fmhi.usf.edu/qa/ILSpecialReviews/Forms/AllItems.aspxCBC ContractsCBC contract in<strong>for</strong>mation is available online at:www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/cbc/Interagency AgreementsInteragency Agreements are available online at:http://center<strong>for</strong>childwelfare.fmhi.usf.edu/kb/cdother/Forms/AllItems.aspxIL <strong>Program</strong> Monitoring (OPPAGA and Auditor General)OPPAGA: OPPAGA Reports are available online at:www.oppaga.state.fl.us/ReportsByAgency.aspx?agency=<strong>Child</strong>ren%20and%20families,%20Department%20ofAuditor General: Auditor General Reports are available online at:www.myflorida.com/audgen/pages/subjects/stagencies.htm<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory CouncilAnnual reports are available online at:www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/indliving/AdvisoryCouncil/index.shtml<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Transitional Services Critical Checklist Annual reports are available online at: www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/indliving/index.shtml2

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StatewideChapter 02<strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> Contacts

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsCentral OfficeCentral Office StaffMarci Kirkland, Interim IL Budget1317 Winewood Blvd, Bldg 1(850) 487-2464Fax (850) 922-4193Marci_Kirkland @dcf.state.fl.usTammy Workman, IL <strong>Program</strong>s1317 Winewood Blvd, Bldg 1(850) 443-4091Fax: (850) 487-0688Tammy_Workman@dcf.state.fl.usGay Frizzell, ILSAC and IL Redesign Support1317 Winewood Blvd, Bldg 1Tallahassee, Fl 32399(850) 922-0375Fax: (850) 487-0688Gay_Frizzell @dcf.state.fl.us1 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsNorthwest RegionNorthwest RegionDCF StaffSarah Spencer, Special Projects and <strong>Child</strong> Location Specialist117 S. Waukesha StreetBonifay, FL 32425Phone: (850) 547-8544Cell: (850) 228-1136Fax: (850) 547-8545Circuit 1Families First NetworkEscambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa andWalton CountiesClaudia Stegall, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Specialist5401 W Fairfield DrPensacola, FL 32506850-453-7745 (office)850-453-7763 (fax)Claudia.Stegall@bhcpns.orgMelody Kohr, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Specialist1851 West St. Mary StPensacola, FL 32501Cell 850 572-1628Office 850 437-8972Melody.Kohr@bhcpns.orgJoe Kennedy, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator340 NW Beal PkwyFt. Walton Beach, Fl 32548SC674-3788 or 850-833-3788Fax: SC674-3905 or 850-833-3905Joe.Kennedy@bhcpns.orgCaprice Blizzard, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator1851 West St. Mary StPensacola, FL 32501(850)437-8973Caprice.blizzard@bhcpns.orgMichael Simmons, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator5401 W Fairfield DrPensacola, FL 32506850-453-7745Michael.Simmons@bhcpns.org2 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsCircuit 2 and 14Big Bend Community Based CareService Provider: DISC VIllageDale East, <strong>Program</strong> Manager, DISC Village1000 W. Tharpe St.Tallahassee, Florida 32304(850) 488-0506Cell (850) 559-2089Fax (850) 487-1986deast@bigbendcbc.orgRosalind Townsend, IL SpecialistBay County Human Services <strong>Center</strong>911 Harrison AvenuePanama City, Florida 32401(850) 747-5755rtownsend@bigbendcbc.orgClyde Mathis, IL SpecialistBay County Human Services <strong>Center</strong>911 Harrison AvenuePanama City, Florida 32401(850) 747-5755cmathis@bigbendcbc.orgMarylee Snyder1352 South Blvd.Chipley, Florida 32428(850) 415-5146msnyder@bigbendcbc.orgAngela Lindsey, IL SpecialistLeon Human Services1000 W. Tharpe St.Tallahassee, Florida 32301(850) 488-0506alindsey@bigbendcbc.orgVacant, IL SpecialistLeon Human Services1000 W. Tharpe St.Tallahassee, Florida 32301(850) 488-0506deast@bigbendcbc.orgErika Williams, IL SpecialistLeon Human Services1000 W. Tharpe St.Tallahassee, Florida 32301(850) 488-0506ewilliams@bigbendcbc.org3 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsNortheast RegionNortheast ZoneDCF StaffTeresa K. Phoenix, Family Services SpecialistFamily Safety <strong>Program</strong> OfficeNortheast RegionOffice Phone: (904) 723-5329fax (904) 727-5518Cell (904) 370-4795teresa_phoenix@dcf.state.fl.usCircuit 3 and 8CDS, Inc.Michael Reneke, Contract ManagerPartnership <strong>for</strong> Strong Families515 North Main StreetGainesville, FL 32601Phone: (352) 393-2740 x 325Fax: (352)-244-1636michael.reneke@pfsf.orgRhonda J Lockwood, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator1300 NW 6 th StGainesville, Fl 32601(352) 244-0664 ext 3803(386) 487-0190Cell: (352)318-9433rhonda_lockwood@cdsfl.orgCircuit 4Family Support Services of N FloridaSarah Markman, Director of Family Services4057 Carmichael AveBld 3000 Suite 101Jacksonville FL 32207(904) 421-5878(904) 477-2406 cell(904) 421-5821 faxSarah.Markman@fssnf.orgRick Testasecca, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator4057 Carmichael Ave. Building 3000,Suite 101,Jacksonville, Fl 32207(904)421-5875rick.testasecca@fssnf.orgVickie Simon4057 Carmichael Ave. Building3000, Suite 101,Jacksonville, Fl 32207(904)421-5834vickie.simon@fssnf.org4 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsEdward Monagan,4057 Carmichael AveBld 3000 Suite 101Jacksonville FL 32207Tonya Murphy4057 Carmichael AveBld 3000 Suite 101Jacksonville FL 32207Stavonna Shootes4057 Carmichael AveBld 3000 Suite 101Jacksonville FL 32207Circuit 7The Family Integrity <strong>Program</strong>Kevin Roberts, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator(904)209-6133kdroberts@sjcfl.usPaul Morgan, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator(904) 209-6101pmorgan@sjcfl.usCircuit 4Clay and Baker Kids Net, Inc.Nora Milne1726 Kingsley Av Suite 2Orange Park, FL 323073(904) 278-5644nmilne@cbkn.orgEric Wetzel - IL Coordinator1726 Kingsley Av Suite 2Orange Park, FL 32073(904)278-5644 x2047ewetzel@cbkn.org)Circuit 7Community Partnership <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong>renCircuit 7<strong>Child</strong>ren’s Home Society<strong>Child</strong>ren’s Home Society of FloridaRashid Muhammad, <strong>Program</strong> Office SupervisorVolusia, Flagler, Putnam Counties160 N. Beach St.Daytona Beach, Fl. 32114Phone: (386) 254-3790Fax: (386) 254-3903Rashid.Muhammad@cbcvf.orgMary Mackins, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> Supervisor2400 S Ridgewood AvSouth Daytona, FL 32119386-304-7605 x224Mary.mackins@chsfl.org5 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsCircuit 12Sarasota YMCA SouthLucia Branton<strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> Specialist1500 Independence Blvd.Sarasota FL, 34234(941) 371-4799 x193Fax: (941) 371-5439LBranton@sarasota-ymca.orgCain Blackwell – IL Coordinator5729 Manatee Av WBradenton, Fl 34209(941) 721-7670 x206Fax: (941) 721-8950Cblackwell@sarasota-ymca.orgCircuit 20District 8 Staff<strong>Child</strong>ren's Home Society of FloridaNancy Eddleblute, Supervisor of IL Case Management/Adoptions<strong>Child</strong>ren’s Network of SW FloridaFamily Preservation ServicesCollier, Hendry and Glades(Provides case management to youth/adults ages 13-23)2606 Horseshoe DriveNaples, Florida 34104(239) 213-4102neddleblute@childnetswfl.orgLauren FinkbinderIL Case manager Vacant2606 Horseshoe DriveNaples, Florida 34104Sherry Wenzel<strong>Child</strong>ren’s Home Society(Provides services to youth age 13-23, but not case management)1940 Maravilla AvenueFort Myers, Florida 33901(239) 277-0096Sherry.wenzel@chsfl.orgCircuit 20<strong>Child</strong>ren's Network of Southwest FloridaMelissa Bonner2232 Altamont AvenueFort Myers, FL 33901(239) 226-1524fax: 239-425-6344mbonner@childnetswfl.orgSummer Bell-Nolan<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Specialist2232 Altamont AvenueFort Myers, FL 33901(239) 226-1524fax: 239-425-6344sbell@childnetswfl.org7 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsCentral RegionCircuit 18CBC of BrevardProvider: Crosswinds Youth Services, Inc.Karen Locke, Chief Operating Officer1407 Dixon Blvd.Cocoa, FL 32922(321) 452-0800, extension 130FAX: (321) 394-0385karenlocke@crosswindsyouthservices.orgChristine Barker, <strong>Program</strong> Director1407 Dixon BlvdCocoa, FL 32922(321) 452-0800, extension 216FAX: (321) 394-0385christinebarker@crosswindsyouthservices.orgJim Davis, IL Specialist1407 Dixon BlvdCocoa, FL 32922Phone: (321) 452-0800, extension 165jimdavis@crosswindsyouthservices.orgStevette Dukes, IL Specialist1407 Dixon BlvdCocoa, FL 32922Phone: (321) 452-0800, extension 166stevettedukes@crosswindsyouthservices.orgToni Thayer, IL Specialist1407 Dixon BlvdCocoa, FL 32922Phone: (321) 452-0800, extension 164tonithayer@crosswindsyouthservices.orgStacey Dano – Director of Operations,Family Services of Metro Orlando2600 Technology Drive, Suite 250Orlando, Florida 32804Phone: 407-398-7975sdano@fsmetroorlando.orgCircuit 9Family Services of Metro OrlandoMelissa Norris, IL <strong>Program</strong> Manager804 North Hoagland BlvdKissimmee, FL 34741Phone: 407-931-2911 ext 123MNorris@isifl.orgChana Wyble, IL Supervisor802 N HoaglandKissimmee, FL 34741Phone: 407-931-2911 ext 125CWyble@isilf.org8 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsKeri Flynn, Operations Consultant Community Based Care ofSeminole 117 E. Lake Mary Blvd.San<strong>for</strong>d, FL 32773Phone: (407) 333-8256Keri.Flynn@cbcseminole.orgCircuit 18CBC of SeminoleTracy Ludwig, IL Specialist2921 South Orlando Ave, Ste 150 San<strong>for</strong>d, FL 32773Phone: (407) 739-8069Tracy.ludwig@cbcseminole.orgAmanda Annis, IL Supervisor2921 S. Orlando Dr. #150San<strong>for</strong>d, Fl 32773Phone: (407) 694-2892Amanda.Annis@cbcseminole.orgCircuit 5Kids Central Inc.Shalonda McHenry-Sims, Director of IL and Accreditation Services;2117 SW Highway 484;Ocala, FL 34473;Phone: 352-873-6332 x3475;Shalonda.Mchenry@kidscentralinc.orgLindsey Tew, IL Specialist2117 SW Highway 484;Ocala, FL 34473;Phone: 352-873-6332 x3511;Lindsey.tew@kidscentralinc.orgKara Votta, IL Specialist,2117 SW Highway 484Ocala; FL 34473;Phone: 352-873-6332 x3483kara.votta@kidscentralinc.orgGeraldine Green IL Community Navigator <strong>for</strong> Lake County,2117 SW Hwy 484;Ocala, Fl 34473;Phone: (352) 598-3385Geraldine.green@kidscentalinc.orgIvelisse Troche, IL Community Navigator <strong>for</strong> Marion County,2117 SW Hwy 484;Ocala, Fl 34473;Phone: 352-873-6332 x3508Ivelisse.troche@kidscentralinc.orgAimee Gandy, Teen Specialist,2117 SW Highway 484;Ocala, Fl 34473;Phone: 352-873-6332 x35519 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsAimee.gandy@kidscentralinc.orgChristie Brooks IL Transition Specialist;2117 SW Hwy 484; Ocala, Fl 34473;Phone: (352) 352-873-6332 x3516christie.brooks@kidscentalinc.orgDanielle Cafiero, IL Navigator <strong>for</strong> Citrus, Hernando, and Sumter2117 SW Hwy 484 Ocala, Fl 34473;Phone: (352) 598-3385danielle.cafiero @kidscentalinc.orgCircuit 10Heartland <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong>renChris DyerDirector of Contract ManagementP.O. Box 1017Bartow, Fl 33831Phone: (863) 519-8900 x 207cdyar@heartland<strong>for</strong>children.orgWayne HarwellContract ManagerP.O. Box 1017Bartow, Fl 33831Phone: (863) 519-8900 x 208wharwell@heartland<strong>for</strong>children.orgDaniel WilliamsIL Project CoordinatorP.O. Box 1017Bartow, Fl 33831Phone: (863) 519-8900 x 238Dwilli10@heartland<strong>for</strong>children.orgMaria LazaroRoad to Success <strong>Program</strong> Manager500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881Phone: 863-508-1100 x. 3338mlazaro@devereux.orgCircuit 10Devereux FloridaKeith CrossSuccess Coordinator500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881Phone: 863-508-1100 x. 3343kcross@devereux.orgWinsome PryceSuccess Coordinator500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881Phone: 863-508-1100 x. 3341wpryce@devereux.org10 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsEva DavisSuccess Coordinator500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881Phone: 863-508-1100 x. 3341edavis2@devereux.orgKim NesbitAmeriCorps <strong>Program</strong> Coordinator500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881Phone: 863-508-1100 x. 3339knesbit@devereux.orgAmanda SpearsRoad to Success Specialist500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881aspears@devereux.orgRenee LeeRoad to Success Specialist500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881rlee@devereux.orgDonna ClearyRoad to Success Specialist500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881dcleary@devereux.orgDebbie CoopRoad to Success Specialist500 E.Lake Howard Drive 4th FloorWinter Haven, FL 33881dcoop@devereux.orgCircuit 19United <strong>for</strong> FamiliesDenise Natalizio-Rivan, MSDirector Of <strong>Program</strong> ServicesUnited For Families10570 S. Federal HighwayPort St. Lucie, FL772-398-2920 (office)772-398-2925 (fax)772-201-2522 (cell)denise.rivan@UFF.USLeigh Ann Gilcher<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> CoordinatorUnited For Families10570 S. Federal HighwayPort St. Lucie, FL772-398-2920 (office)772-398-2925 (fax)772-201-3928 (cell)11 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/Contactsleigh.gilcher@UFF.US12 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsSoutheast RegionSoutheast RegionDCF StaffLori Scott - Specialist1400 W. Commercial Blvd. Room 210mFt. Lauderdale, Fl 33309Phone: (954) 812-8166 (cell)Lori_Scott@dcf.state.fl.usCircuit 15<strong>Child</strong> and Family ConnectionsJudith Karim, Chief Operating Officer4100 Okeechobee Blvd.West Palm Beach, Fl 33409Phone: 561-352-2500jkarim@cfcpbc.orgDonna Andrews<strong>Program</strong> Operations Coordinator<strong>Child</strong> and Family Connections4100 Okeechobee Blvd. 2 nd FloorWest Palm Beach, Fl 33409Phone: 561-352-2500dandrews@cfcpbc.orgCircuit 15Vita NovaJeff DeMario<strong>Program</strong> DirectorVita Nova1800 S. Australian Avenue, Suite 205West Palm Beach, Fl 33409Phone: 561-689-0035jdemario@vitanovainc.orgAmanda MeyersIL CoordinatorVita Nova1800 S. Australian Avenue, Suite 205West Palm Beach, Fl 33409Phone: 561-689-0035ameyers@vitanovainc.orgCircuit 17<strong>Child</strong>Net Inc.Theresa Kennedy, Director of Permanency313 N. State Road 7Plantation, FL 33317Phone: (954)414-6000 Main OfficeCall Phone: (954)234-4571tkennedy@childnet.usMichael Stephens313 N. State Road 7Plantation, FL 33317Phone: (954)414-6000 Main Officemstephens@childnet.us13 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsSouthern RegionCircuit 11 and 16Our Kids Inc.Barbara Toledo401 NW 2 nd Ave.South Tower, 10 th FloorMiami, Fl 33128Phone: (305) 455-1055toledob@ourkids.usJefferey Glover, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> Manager401 NW 2 nd Ave.South Tower, 10 th FloorMiami, Fl 33128(305) 455-1043 or by email at gloverj@ourkids.usLuis A. Stefanoni401 NW 2 nd AveSouth Tower, 10 th FloorMiami, Fl 33128Phone: (305) 455-6300stefanonil@ourkids.usCircuit 11One Hope UnitedE. Maritza Tejada - ILP Assoc. <strong>Program</strong> Coordinator10700 Caribbean Blvd, suite 207Miami, FL 33189Phone: 786-242-5007Fax: 786-242-0234Cell: (786) 291-2900Mtejada@kidshopeunited.orgCircuit 11<strong>Child</strong>ren’s Home Society of FloridaElise Braddy,10720 Carribbean Blvd., #300,Miami, FL 33189,Phone: (305)969-4315,Elise.Braddy2@chsfl.orgCircuit 11<strong>Center</strong> <strong>for</strong> Family and <strong>Child</strong> EnrichmentBetty Delgado17801 NW 2 Ave Suite 204Miami, FL 33169Phone: (305)493-4303 ext. 214Cell: (305) 753-0258bdelgado@cfceinc.orgCircuit 11CHARLEE <strong>Program</strong>Alex Pitaluga (CHARLEE)155 South Miami AvenueSuite #700Miami, Florida 33130Phone: 305-779-9760Cell: 305-609-7828alex.pitaluga@charleeprogram.org14 10/4/2010

State of Florida <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Staff/ContactsMarta O. Torres155 South Miami Ave Suite # 700Miami, FL 33130Phone: 305-779-9750Cell 305-975-2754marta.torres@charleeprogram.orgCircuit 11Family Resource <strong>Center</strong>Patricia Louis, MSW155 S Miami Av #500Miami, FL 33130(305) 960-5560plouis@frcflorida.orgWesley HouseCircuit 16Suzanne Barlow,3114 Flagler Avenue,Key West, FL 33040,Phone: (305) 809-5000 x315,suzanne.barlow@wesleyhouse.orgCircuit 11His House <strong>Child</strong>ren’s HomeTina Bruce20000 NW 47 th AvHector BuildingOpa-Locka, FL 33055Phone: (305)430-0085 x245tbruce@hhch.org15 10/4/2010

Chapter 03Quality Assurance

Windows into PracticeThe Regional Quality Assurance ModelUpdated <strong>for</strong> Fiscal Year 2010/2011I. BackgroundStates are required to develop and implement <strong>Child</strong> and Family Services Plans (CFSP)in order to receive federal funds under Title IV-B and other funding sources. As part ofthe CFSP, each state must describe their quality assurance system and report on howthey will continually improve child welfare practices.The following sites are provided <strong>for</strong> additional reference:• 471 (a)(22) of the Social Security Act"In order <strong>for</strong> a state to be eligible <strong>for</strong> payments under this part, it shall have aplan approved by the Secretary which provides that, not later than January 1,1999, the state shall develop and implement standards to ensure that children infoster care placements in public or private agencies are provided quality servicesthat protect the safety and health of the children."• 45CFR 1357.15(u)"The state must include in the CFSP a description of the quality assurancesystem it will use to regularly assess the quality of services under the CFSP andassure that there will be measures to address identified problems."• 45CFR1355.34(c)(3)"Quality assurance system: The state has developed and implementedstandards to ensure that children in foster care placements are provided qualityservices that protect the safety and health of the children (section 471(a)(22))and is operating an identifiable quality assurance system (45 CFR 1357.15(u) asdescribed in the CFSP that: (i) is in place in the jurisdictions within the statewhere services included in the CFSP are provided; (ii) is able to evaluate theadequacy and quality of services provided under the CFSP; (iii) is able to identifythe strengths and needs of the service delivery system it evaluates; (iv) providesreports to agency administrators on the quality of services evaluated and needs<strong>for</strong> improvement; and (v) evaluates measures implemented to address identifiedproblems."

State-level quality assurance systems are monitored through the federal <strong>Child</strong> andFamily Services Review (CFSR) process that includes case file reviews, case specificinterviews, and stakeholder interviews to evaluate the system of care. CFSRs areper<strong>for</strong>med in a partnership mode between federally certified reviewers and state qualityassurance and management staff.In design, <strong>Florida's</strong> Regional Quality Assurance (QA) Model resembles the CFSRprocesses and measurable standards, but it is tailored to specifically address state andlocal needs while also fulfilling each of federal requirements.The January 2008 the CFSR found the state in "substantial con<strong>for</strong>mity" with its qualityassurance system. The CFSR report affirmed, "The State has implemented standardsthat are sufficient to protect the safety and health of children in care; and the State hasa functioning QA system that addresses key practice areas and provided feedback onkey findings."In addition to complying with federal mandates in order to receive federal funds, theRegional QA Model was designed to also, and perhaps more importantly, increaseoversight and accountability at all levels of the service delivery system in order toimprove outcomes <strong>for</strong> children and families. Although Regions and Community-BasedCare (CBC) agencies have specific quality assurance staff to conduct ongoing reviews,the philosophical foundation of the Regional QA Model is that assuring quality servicedelivery to children and families is everyone's job, so there are many stakeholdersincluded in the entire process.

CBC IN-DEPTH REVIEW: SYSTEMIC FACTORSAt least two of the following seven systemic factors are reviewed as part of each quarter's indepthreview.1. The statewide in<strong>for</strong>mation system. Addresses how the CBC uses FSFN <strong>for</strong> case management2. The case review system. Addresses how the CBC ensures each child has a written case planthat is developed in face-to-face contacts with the parents and other parties involved in thecase.3. The Quality assurance system. Addresses how the CBC conducts quality assurance activitiesthat assess the quality of services delivered and ensures children in foster care are safe andhealthy.4. Staff and provider training. Addresses how the CBC develops and delivers appropriatetraining programs that provide staff with necessary skills and knowledge to carry out theirjobs.5. Service array and resource development. Addresses the array of services to meet the needsof children and families that either help children remain in their home or help children infoster care achieve permanency.6. The agency's responsiveness to the community. Addresses the CBCs involvement with thetribal representatives, consumers, service providers, foster parents, juvenile court, and otherpublic and private child serving agencies.7. Foster and adoptive home licensing, approval and recruitment. Addresses the CBCs ef<strong>for</strong>tsto recruit potential foster and adoptive families who reflect the ethnic and racial diversity ofthe community; implementing reasonable standards and assuring background checks arecompleted.

Regional Quality Assurance Model Components<strong>Child</strong> Proiective Investigation'1a Ongoing Hotline QA(internal and contracted)1b Hotline StatewideInterface QA. Annual(Hotline and HQ Staff)2a. CPI OperationalReview. Complianceand quality, all cases,FSFN plus limiteditems captured fromdiscussion <strong>for</strong>mat.ongoing(CPI Supervisors and2nd party reviewers)2b. Regional Discretionary <strong>Child</strong> ProtectiveInvestigation Quality Review Case quality, twiceper year, at least one review in each circuitannually, focus chosen by region/circuit. (CPISupervisors and Region OA, may be joint)Front LinePracticeJoint Assurance ofQuality PracticeCommunity Based Care Services3a. CBC Front Line Practice review Limitednumber of key practice items captured fromdiscussion tomnat Ongoing, aggregatereporting quarterly, all cases. (CBCSupervisors)3b CBC base review Comprehensivecompliance and quality, 25 cases perquarter per selection criteria <strong>for</strong> age andcase status (CBC QA)3c. CBC Side by Side Comprehensivequality and compliance reviews Quarterly. Icases selected from 3b, same tool. (CBCand DCF region QA)2c Regional CPI Comprehensive OversightReview At least twice per year. "90/10" samplesplit in half or split into region-selected additionalfrequency, independent oversight (Region QAHotline invited)2d. Sheriff Peer Review Annual (Sheriff andregion staff)Oversight andAccountability3d CBC In-Deplh Quality of Practicereviews Oversight of quality, quarterly, 2-3cases selected from 3b. (Region OA staff)3e CBC Agency Management Annualreview and approval of QA plans, midyearassessment of plan implementation. (RegionQA staff)3f. Executive management discretionary reviews As directed by department management, topics of concern, 1-3 peryear (Region QA staff wilh circuit or CBC as appropriate)4. <strong>Child</strong>ren's Legal Services Quality Management (TBD. per Legal workgroup)5a <strong>Child</strong> and Family Services Review. Federal - every 5 years (All involved groups: DCF, CBCs. CIS, stakeholders)5b Region Discretionary Reviews (Region, as needed/assigned by region director)5c. <strong>Child</strong> Death Reviews (HQ and region)6 Integrate other sources of quality in<strong>for</strong>mation. Includes client complaints, incident reporting, exit interviews with fosterchildren, contract managemenfoversight, other program or agency data, etc (Various, with HQ support, development oftools and mechanisms, analysis)7 Quality Improvement. Processes and tools to support review analyze, act, improve, document, etc. Aligned withDepartment-wide approach.8a. Annual Statewide Quality Assurance Plan 8b. Annual CBC Quality Assurance Plan9a. Annual Statewide Quality Report 9b. Annual CBC Quality ReportIL10. Quality Assurance Supports Data, measurement, toolset, training, consequences/incentivesREV 619108

<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Quality Assurance GuidelinesThe <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Standards <strong>for</strong> case management are 44, 45,46,47,48, and 71. Theguidelines below direct on how the rater will rate these particular standards. The rater alsoutilizes their critical thinking skills and looks <strong>for</strong> factual evidence up applying their rating andrational <strong>for</strong> their rating.1) If foster care youth is 13 to 14 years of age, have you thoroughly completed the preindependentliving assessment and identified services needed? Are those services beingdelivered and are they effective?2) If foster care youth is 14 to 17 years of age, have you thoroughly completed theindependent living assessment and identified services needed? Are those services beingdelivered and are they effective?3) Does the case plan contain a written description of programs and individualized servicesthat will help the youth prepare <strong>for</strong> the transition from foster care to independent living?Is it anticipated that those services will enable the youth to have adequate clothing, a safeplace to live, sufficient income, educational opportunities and health care, and theanchoring of a reliable adult mentor at the point they leave the system? If not, what stepsmust be taken to achieve these goals?

Quality of Practice StandardsPre-lndependent <strong>Living</strong> Assessment44.0 If the case involves a youth who has reached 13 but not yet 15 years of age andhe/she is living in a licensed, out-of-home placement, a Pre-lndependent <strong>Living</strong>Assessment was completed that identified service needs and services wereprovided, (applicable to licensed out-of-home cases)Requirement: Pre-lndependent living services that include but are not limited to, life skillstraining, educational field trips, and conferences are required to be provided to youth ages 13 butnot yet 15 years of age. The specific sendees provided are determined based on the Prelndependent<strong>Living</strong> Assessment.Instructions and Considerations: In<strong>for</strong>mation regarding <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> services may bemaintained in a separate <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> file. The Pre-lndependent <strong>Living</strong> assessment shouldaddress the adolescent's individual needs, life skills, education, and social skill development toprepare the child to live independently and have a quality of life appropriate to the youth's age. Thereviewer should find evidence the assessment and needed services were discussed with the child.The child's signature on the assessment is not sufficient to conclude a discussion occurred. Theservices should address the Pre-lndependent <strong>Living</strong> skills and educational deficiencies identified inthe Pre-lndependent <strong>Living</strong> assessment, and the child's progress and/or continuing areas ofconcern. The documentation may include staffing summaries, case notes, provider reports, schoolreports, and report cards. Services may include life skills training, employment counseling,educational field trips, and conferences, etc. If the adolescent was not assessed, the reason shouldbe documented.Rating:^ Yes if an assessment was conducted and addressed the necessary components to the extentthat service needs were identified and were either provided or were in process of beingengaged.^ No if some or none of the necessary components were not addressed and there is noidentification of service needs.•/NA if the. child did not meet the age requirements or was not in licensed out-of-home careduring the period under review or was in out-of-home care less than 60 calendar daysduring the period under review.Reference: s. 409.1451(4) (a), F.S.; Florida Administrative Code 65C-28.009(5) and Federal <strong>Child</strong>& Family Services Review. Well-Being Outcome 1, Item 17Office of Family Safety | Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families ! FY 2010/2011 (Version 1 of 1 July 1, 2010)

Quality of Practice Standards<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Plans45.0 If the child is 13 years of age or older and in licensed foster care, the casemanagement agency provided guidance and assistance in developing aneducational and career path that is based on the child's individual abilities andinterests, (applicable to licensed out-of-home cases)Requirement: For children in foster care between the ages of 13 and 15. the case managementorganization must ensure there has been detailed discussion of the following:• <strong>Child</strong>'s interest's and any appropriate hobbies:• Listing of careers that that interest them; and• Awareness of need to participate in developing a more detailed educational and career pathplan when they turn 1 6 years of age.For children ages 16 and 17, the case management organization must ensure the child's case planincludes an educational and career path that was developed with input from the child, fosterparents, and school member to the fullest extent possible. The child can choose one of fourpostsecondary goals:• attend college or military academy;• obtain 2-year postsecondary degree;• attain postsecondary career and technical certificate or credential; or• begin immediate employment.The process must be child-centered. If the child is enrolled in the Exceptional Student Educationprogram, such goal setting must be coordinated with the school and agree with the IndividualEducational Plan transitional plan. The case plan must be written simply and clearly in English, orif English is not the child's principal language, a copy of the case plan shall be prepared in thechild's language.Instructions and Considerations: Reviewers should look <strong>for</strong> documentation that supportsconversations and negotiations occurred between case management, the child, foster parents andschool member(s) during the development of the child's educational and career path plan. Inaddition, the educational and career path should be well documented in the case plan and reflectdecisions that are specific to the focus child's individual abilities and interests.Rating'.Yes, if the child is 1 6 and 1 7 and the case plan documents the educational and career pathwas determined through discussions by involved parties and the path is clearly inconjunction with the child's abilities and interests.Yes, if the child is ages 13-15 and there is detailed documentation of discussion regardingchild's interests and hobbies as well as the child's understanding of the need to develop amore detailed plan upon their 16th birthday.Office of Family Safety I Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families | FY 2010/2011 (Version 1 of 1 July 1, 2010)

Quality of Practice StandardsSNo. if the case plan does not address the educational and career path requirement at all. orif it is addressed, it insufficiently reflects conversations and negotiations and/or appropriategoal setting based on child's abilities and interests.^ NA if the focus child is not in foster care or has not reached 13 years of age.Reference: s.409.1451(3)(a)l, F.S., Florida Administrative Code 65C-29.009 & Federal <strong>Child</strong> &Family Services Review. Weil-Being Outcome 1, Item 17 and 18Office of Family Safety ! Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families FY 2010/2011 (Version 1 of 1 July 1, 2010)

Quality of Practice Standards<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>/Teen Plan46.0 The teen-aged focus child is af<strong>for</strong>ded opportunities to participate in normal lifeskills activities in the foster home and community that are reasonable andappropriate <strong>for</strong> his/her respective age or special needs, (applicable to licensed outof-homecases)Requirement: To prepare a teen-aged child in foster care to ultimately live independently, theymust have opportunities to participate in life skills activities in their homes and communities thatare reasonable and appropriate <strong>for</strong> their age or any special needs they might have (previouslyreferred to as the normalcy plan or a plan <strong>for</strong> age-appropriate activities). It is the case managementagency's responsibility to ensure these opportunities are available so that the child can increasehis/her ability to eventually live independently and become self-sufficient. Clear documentationspecific to the negotiation of. and agreement to, the teen's plan should be recorded in the case fileand signed by the teen, the foster parent and case manager.Instructions and Considerations:available <strong>for</strong> the focus child to:Reviewers must determine if appropriate opportunities are• Participate in age appropriate activities and manage age appropriate responsibilities;• Interact with mentors;• Learn nutritional and financial skills;• Socialize and have normal life experiences; and• Receive allowances, etc.Since the state does not require a standardized 'Teen Plan" <strong>for</strong>mat, some case managementagencies may opt to use different <strong>for</strong>mats to document the negotiation of, and the agreement to, theteen's plan; there<strong>for</strong>e, reviewers will need to inquire as to local practices when rating this standard.The "Teen Plan" must be updated quarterly.Rating:>^ Yes if documentation in any written <strong>for</strong>mat, and signed by the teen, the foster parents(caregiver or residential child-caring agency) and the case manager, clearly reflects an ageappropriate plan is in place to assist the teen toward independence, and the documentationsupports the child was af<strong>for</strong>ded opportunities to participate in normal life skills activities.>^ No there is minimal documentation of a teen plan, or no teen plan was found in the file, orthe teen plan was not signed by all required participants, or no documentation the child wasaf<strong>for</strong>ded opportunities to participate in normal life skills activities.S NA if focus child is not a teenager living in a foster care placement.References: s.409.1451 (3)(a)l-4; Florida Administrative Code 65C-30.007(1) (a-d), August 31,2005 Memorandum, Well-Being Outcome 1. Item 1Office of Family Safety | Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families ! FY 2010/2011 (Version 1 of 1 July 1, 2010)

Quality of Practice Standards<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>/TransitionPlanning47.0 For youth 15 years of age but not yet 18, the agency appropriately monitored theyouth's progress towards successfully transitioning from foster care toindependence through regular in<strong>for</strong>mative staffings.Requirement: The agency must conduct a staffing on the youth's progress, or lack thereof, at leastonce every six months to ensure that the appropriate independent living training and services asdetermined by the independent life skills assessment are being received and are effective.Instructions and Considerations: Although the minimal requirement of oversight through staffingsis once every six months, the reviewer must assess if once every six months was appropriate <strong>for</strong> theyouth in transitioning planning, or because of the specific needs of the youth, additional oversightthrough staffings should have been provided.Additionally, <strong>for</strong> those youth who have reached their 17th birthday, the agency should have assessedhis/her skills and abilities to live independently and become self-sufficient during the calendarmonth of the birthday. Reviewers should, there<strong>for</strong>e, also consider this aspect when ratingper<strong>for</strong>mance.Reviewers should look <strong>for</strong> documentation that clearly reflects input from the youth and reflectionon what is working or not working in moving the youth toward independence. If issues or barrierswere identified, reviewers must evaluate if those issues were appropriately managed and resolvedor on their way to being resolved.Rating:>^ Yes, if there is clear documentation that appropriate and timely staffings (to include withinthe month of the 17th birthday if applicable) were held that addressed the youth's specificneeds (including adult services) toward successfully preparing <strong>for</strong> transition from fostercare to independent living. Documentation supports input from the youth solicited andconsidered.^ No, there is minimal or no documentation to reflect the agency monitored progress towardindependence as needed to ensure quality service provision, or there is no evidence tosupport the youth was actively involved with transition planning.SNA if the focus child was younger than 15 years of age.References: s.409.1451(4)(b). Well Being Outcome 1, Item 17Office of Family Safety i Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families i FY 2010/2011 (Version 1 of 1 July 1, 2010)

Quality of Practice StandardsOngoing Assessment of the <strong>Child</strong>'s Needs48.0 An ongoing assessment of the child (ren)'s needs was conducted to provideupdated in<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>for</strong> case planning purposes (applicable to all cases)Requirement: Concerted ef<strong>for</strong>ts are required to assess the ongoing needs of the child specific toidentifying the services necessary to achieve case goals and adequately address the issues relevantto the agency's involvement with the family. This standard differs from earlier and laterassessment standards as it relates to family engagement in case planningInstructions and Considerations: An assessment of needs may take different <strong>for</strong>ms. For example,needs may be assessed through a <strong>for</strong>mal evaluation conducted by another agency or by a contractedprovider or through a more in<strong>for</strong>mal case planning process involving intensive interviews with thechild, family, service providers, e.g., Comprehensive Behavioral Health Assessment professionalevaluations, and ongoing family assessments, etc. The reviewer must determine whether theongoing assessments addressed an in-depth understanding of the child's needs, regardless ofwhether the needs were assessed in a <strong>for</strong>mal or in<strong>for</strong>mal manner.This standard asks if the child's needs other than education, physical health, and mental/behavioralhealth (including substance abuse), were addressed. (Education, physical/dental and mental healthare addressed later.)If the child was in out-of-home care, the reviewer must determine whether the agency assessed theongoing needs of the focus child in the case related to normalcy issues, e.g. did the child haveopportunities to join in extra curricula activities; did the child have appropriate clothing andallowances? For in-home cases, the reviewer must consider the ongoing needs of all children in thehome and evaluate how each was engaged in case planning individually and/or within the familycontext.Rating:^ Yes if evidence of an ongoing assessment was completed and adequately addressed thechild's needs.•/SNo if there is no evidence of an ongoing assessment or the assessment was not adequate.NA if the case was open less than six months during the period under review.Reference: Florida Administrative Code 65C-30.005; & Florida Administrative Code 65C-30.006,Federal <strong>Child</strong> & Family Services Review, Well-Being Outcome 1. Item 17Office of Family Safety ' Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families | FY 2010/2011 (Version 1 of 1 July 1, 2010)

Quality of Practice StandardsAnother Planned <strong>Living</strong> Arrangement71.0 For children with the goal of "Another Planned Permanent <strong>Living</strong>Arrangement," the agency made concerted ef<strong>for</strong>ts to ensure the child isadequately prepared to transition into independent living and is living in a"permanent" arrangement until he/she reaches the age of majority.(applicable to Another Planned Permanent <strong>Living</strong> Arrangement [APPLA] cases)a. The agency has made or is making concerted ef<strong>for</strong>ts to adequately prepare the child totransition from foster care into independent living upon being emancipated or reaching the ageof majority.b. The living arrangement is deemed "permanent" based on a commitment on the part of thefoster parent, relative or non-relative caregiver.c. The child is in a long-term facility and will remain in that facility until transition into an adultcare facility.Requirement: Permanency goals include reunification, adoption, permanent guardianship, permanentplacement with a fit and willing relative, or another planned permanent living arrangement. If the first fourpermanency goals are ruled out, the court may find the best option to be "another planned permanent livingarrangement (APPLA)." The APPLA permanency goal is appropriate only if there is reason to believe theplacement will endure and be more stable and secure than ordinary foster care; that the health, safety andwell-being of the child will not be jeopardized; and that there are compelling reasons the "another plannedpermanent living arrangement" is most suitable to the specific child.Compelling reasons include, but are not limited to, a 15 year-old living in foster care remains in touch withand closely bonded to a parent, but the parent is unable to provide <strong>for</strong> or protect the child; the Indian tribehas identified another planned permanent living arrangement: or the foster child is at least 16 years of ageand chooses to remain with the foster parents who are committed to caring <strong>for</strong> the child until he/she reaches18 years of age.In addition, there must be a commitment on the part of the foster parent, relative or non-relative that theliving arrangement is permanent until the child reaches 18 or is emancipated.Instructions and Considerations: Reviewers should not rate this standard based on whether or not theAPPLA goal was appropriate since that issue is addressed in Standard #22. Rather reviewers shoulddetermine if there is evidence that the agency made concerted ef<strong>for</strong>ts to prepare the child with the APPLAgoal to transition into adulthood upon reaching 18 years of age and that there is a commitment on the part ofall parties involved that the child remain in the APPLA placement until reaching majority or emancipation.Similar to the Standard # 47 that addresses all youth living in licensed care in general, this standard asks thereviewer to specifically identify service provision <strong>for</strong> the child with the APPLA goal that will assist thechild to transition to adulthood.When the APPLA goal has been achieved, the judicial review should contain in<strong>for</strong>mation showing thecommitment and endurance of the placement. If the goal is aspirational, i.e., not yet actually achieved, theOffice of Family Safety | Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families! FY 2010/2011 (Version 1 of 1 July 1, 2010)

Quality of Practice Standardscase plan should provide clear tasks designed to achieve a placement with the commitment and enduranceof a permanent placement.The reviewer must provide a Yes or No response <strong>for</strong> each of the three components <strong>for</strong> "accounting'"purposes, but must then use professional judgment in providing a final rating to the basic standard that willbe the bottom-line score after carefully considering the quality of concerted ef<strong>for</strong>ts and commitment.Rating:Yes if there is documented evidence that services specific to the child's needs to successfullytransition into adulthood are/were provided, and the caregiver is committed to providing ahome <strong>for</strong> the child until his/her 18' birthday or emancipation.No if there is no documented evidence that appropriate services were provided, or documentedevidence the caregiver is committed to providing a home until the child's 18th birthday oremancipation.NA if the child is not under an APPLA permanency goal; not living in a long term facility.Reference: s.s. 39.6241, F.S., Florida Administrative Code 62C-28.009, CFSR Permanency Outcome 1,Item 10.Office of Family Safety i Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families FY 2010/2011 (Version 1 of 1 July 1, 2010)

<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Case SpecificInterview Guide <strong>for</strong> In-Depth Quality of Practice ReviewDate:Teen's Name:Interviewed by:Case Name:CBC/Case Management Agency:1. Do you feel the pre-independent living services/life skills training you have receivedor are receiving are based on your very specific needs?2. Have you ever been asked to demonstrate what you have learned from <strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> services or life skills training (ie. complete a bank transaction, cook a meal <strong>for</strong>someone, prepare a budget)?3. Do you actively participate in independent living staffings or other meetings andprovide your thoughts/input on the skills and training you feel you need to achieveindependence?4. Does your case manager/<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator actively work to ensureyou are notified of, and attend, your dependency court hearings and are you giventhe opportunity to provide input to the judge at all your court hearings?5. If you have attended court hearings describe your experience when attending thehearing?6. Have you been involved in developing a plan <strong>for</strong> (and af<strong>for</strong>ded the opportunity toparticipate in) normal activities in your foster/group home and community that werereasonable and appropriate <strong>for</strong> your age or special needs (Teen Plan or NormalcyPlan)?7. Are you involved with your case manager/<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator indeveloping an educational plan and choosing a career path? (Note when answeringthis question, the young adult should be asked whether the following post-secondarygoals were discussed with them: Attendance at college or a military academy;Obtaining a 2-year postsecondary degree; Attaining a postsecondary career andtechnical certificate or credential, or, Beginning immediate employment.8. If you are currently on DJJ probation or in a residential facility <strong>for</strong> delinquent youth (orhave been while you were also in foster care) did your CBC Case Manager/ILCoordinator and staff from the DJJ agency (or your probation officer) work togetherand with you to develop your written plan <strong>for</strong> <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services?9. Did you receive any <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> services/life skills training from the programsor services provided by DJJ while you were on DJJ probation or in a DJJ Residentialfacility?<strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> Regional Quality Management ModelJuly 2010Tab 6 - Attachment 7 (IL)

<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Case SpecificInterview Guide <strong>for</strong> In-Depth Quality of Practice Review10. Has your case manager/<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator actively worked with you todevelop a support system (i.e. - relationship with a mentor, family member or otheradult to whom you can turn <strong>for</strong> help once out of foster care?<strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> Regional Quality Management ModelJuly 2010Tab 6 - Attachment 7 (IL)

<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Special ReviewIn response to various concerns raised by <strong>Florida's</strong> Youth SHINE, Secretary George Sheldonrequested a quality assurance review of the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> in order to addressstated concerns and to help focus improvement ef<strong>for</strong>ts.The <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Special Quality Assurance Review was developed to focus on youth atvarious stages in the child welfare system. The first phase of the review, which was completedin July 2009, focused on young adults <strong>for</strong>merly in foster care who were 18 years of age through22 years of age. The review assessed Aftercare Services, Transitional Support Services, andRoad to Independence Services.The second phase of the review and is specific to youth who had reached their 17l birthday, butwere not yet 18, during the sampling period. The objective was to assess the quality of servicesintended to help prepare youth <strong>for</strong> a successful transition from foster care to independence.The third and final phase, which is currently in progress, concentrates on children 13 through 16years of age, focusing on the quality of service delivery in the areas of educational and careerpaths; supporting "normalcy plans;" and progress toward independence.

Home - Quality Assurance<strong>Center</strong> Home Sign In |Quality AssuranceAll SitesAdvanced Search<strong>Center</strong> HomeNews Knowledge Library Training Resources Florida Contacts Ask a FAQ FAQ Answers FSFN Web Event Setup Help<strong>Center</strong> Home > Quality AssuranceView All Site ContentReturn to KNOWLEDGELIBRARYQuality Assurance Home PageQuality of Practice Standards**FINAL** Standards <strong>for</strong> CM(July'10)**FINAL** Standards <strong>for</strong> CPI(July'10)Quality Assurance PlansRegion QA PlansCBC QA PlansQuality Assurance ReportsCPI QA ReportsCBC QA ReportsQuality Assurance Frameworkand ToolboxRegional Guidelines <strong>for</strong> QAReviews (2010)CPI Supervisory DiscussionGuides (2010)CM Supervisory Discussion Guides(2010)Automated QA ToolCreating and Uploading SamplesReport Formats (2010)Requests <strong>for</strong> Action (2010)Debriefing Guide (2010)Interview Questions (2010)Quality Assurance GlossaryQuality Assurance FAQsQuality Assurance ReviewSchedulesNorthwest RegionNortheast RegionCentral RegionSheriff Office CPISuncoast RegionSoutheast RegionSouthern RegionQuality Assurance ContactListingsQuality AssuranceWelcome to the Regional Quality Assurance System Resource SiteThis site offers users convenient and easy access to a variety of documents and in<strong>for</strong>mation related tothe state's overall Quality Assurance System and local Quality Assurance Activities and Products.The Regional Quality Assurance (QA) System is intended to increase oversight and accountability at all levels ofthe child welfare system in order to improve services and outcomes <strong>for</strong> children and families. Although Regionsand Community Based Care (CBC) agencies have assigned Quality Assurance staff to conduct ongoing reviews, themessage is:Assuring quality service delivery is everyone's job!Defining "quality" may be a challenge, but we know we've delivered quality services when the children andfamilies we serve achieve their best possible outcomes - children are kept safe; they are living in nurturing andpermanent homes; and their educational, physical, dental and mental health needs are being met and sustained.While compliance with federal and state requirements remains critical, the Regional QA System encourages andsupports measuring per<strong>for</strong>mance with a critical eye toward QUALITY. For example, instead of rating compliancethat the six-month family assessment was completed on time, a trained and certified Quality Assurancereviewer will use critical and reflective thinking skills to determine if the assessment was thorough, and if theassessment fully addressed the family's strengths and needs.In brief, the Regional QA System includes several processes that impact outcomes <strong>for</strong> children and families, andprovides local operations and management staff a look into the "windows of practice" so appropriate action canbe taken as necessary and in real-time.Processes include:Office of Family Safety providing leadership, coordination, training, and support to regions and CBCs inimplementing and continually improving the Regional QA System to affect change,Local supervisors mentoring and modeling quality case work through qualitative and reflective case specificdiscussions with staff, teaching and supporting critical, reflective thinking skills,Regional QA staff conducting semi-annual comprehensive child protective investigation quality assurancereviews, reporting findings and taking action as needed,Upcoming Events...Click here to register <strong>for</strong>the events listed below.Please contact GailPerry, (850) 921-7794,if you have any questions.QA Quarterly ManagersMeetingSept. 21 @ 1pm throughSept. 22 @ NoonHoliday Inn and SuitesConference <strong>Center</strong>3600 SW 38th Ave, Ocala.(352)629-9500.Overnight accomodationsshould be requestedunder the block of roomsreserved <strong>for</strong> DCF.QA Reviewer TrainingSept. 28 @ 8:30 throughSept. 29 @ 3 pmHilton, 3600 SW 36th Ave,Ocala(352)854-1400.Overnight accomodationsshould be requestedunder the block of roomsreserved <strong>for</strong> DCF.QA IconClick the icon above and click"Save"to create a Desktop Shortcuthttp://center<strong>for</strong>childwelfare.fmhi.usf.edu/qa/default.aspx[8/9/2010 1:18:04 PM]

Home - Quality AssuranceQuality Assurance MemorandaGeneral Quality AssuranceResourcesSpecial QA ReviewsQuality ImprovementResources PageGo to <strong>Center</strong> HomeRegional and CBC QA staff conducting base and side-by-side quarterly (or semi-annually) case managementreviews; synthesizing the data and taking action as necessary,Regional and CBC QA staff conducting case specific interviews with the child, the parents, the case manager,providers, and others involved in the case under review, andRegional QA staff being in touch with the inner workings of the local systems of care to understand and helpimprove systemic factors in each community.The Regional Quality Assurance System embraces the Department's mission and its guiding principles:Transparency, Orientation to Action, Community Partnerships, Integrity, Leadership and Accountability.Copyright © 2009 by The <strong>Center</strong> <strong>for</strong> the Advancement of <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> PracticePlease read our Privacy Policyhttp://center<strong>for</strong>childwelfare.fmhi.usf.edu/qa/default.aspx[8/9/2010 1:18:04 PM]

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Chapter 04CBC Contracts

Complete the white cells below and in the sample tables. For more than thirty children in a sample, start a new file.Provider Name: Provider City: Contract Number: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>COU Team Member: Site Visit Date: Assigned COU: Below enter the actual date of the record review, or enter the last date of the review period.This date will be used to calculate children's ages and the length of time since removal.Pre IL (Age 13-14) Sample 1-5 <strong>Child</strong> 1 <strong>Child</strong> 2 <strong>Child</strong> 3 <strong>Child</strong> 4 <strong>Child</strong> 5<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsCalculated Date: 30 Days Prior to 13th Birthday 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After Removal 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900Due Date of IL Referral 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After 13th Birthday 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Calculated Date: 60 Days After Removal 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900Due Date of Assessment 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913

Pre IL (Age 13-14) Sample 6-10 <strong>Child</strong> 6 <strong>Child</strong> 7 <strong>Child</strong> 8 <strong>Child</strong> 9 <strong>Child</strong> 10<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsCalculated Date: 30 Days Prior to 13th Birthday 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After Removal 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900Due Date of IL Referral 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After 13th Birthday 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Calculated Date: 60 Days After Removal 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900Due Date of Assessment 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Pre IL (Age 13-14) Sample 11-15 <strong>Child</strong> 11 <strong>Child</strong> 12 <strong>Child</strong> 13 <strong>Child</strong> 14 <strong>Child</strong> 15<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsCalculated Date: 30 Days Prior to 13th Birthday 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After Removal 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900Due Date of IL Referral 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912

Calculated Date: 30 Days After 13th Birthday 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Calculated Date: 60 Days After Removal 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900Due Date of Assessment 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Pre IL (Age 13-14) Sample 16-20 <strong>Child</strong> 16 <strong>Child</strong> 17 <strong>Child</strong> 18 <strong>Child</strong> 19 <strong>Child</strong> 20<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsCalculated Date: 30 Days Prior to 13th Birthday 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After Removal 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900Due Date of IL Referral 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After 13th Birthday 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Calculated Date: 60 Days After Removal 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900Due Date of Assessment 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Pre IL (Age 13-14) 14) Sample 20-2525 <strong>Child</strong> 21 <strong>Child</strong> 22 <strong>Child</strong> 23 <strong>Child</strong> 24 <strong>Child</strong> 25<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!

Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsCalculated Date: 30 Days Prior to 13th Birthday 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After Removal 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900Due Date of IL Referral 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After 13th Birthday 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Calculated Date: 60 Days After Removal 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900Due Date of Assessment 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Pre IL (Age 13-14) Sample 26-30 <strong>Child</strong> 26 <strong>Child</strong> 27 <strong>Child</strong> 28 <strong>Child</strong> 29 <strong>Child</strong> 30<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsCalculated Date: 30 Days Prior to 13th Birthday 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After Removal 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900 1/30/1900Due Date of IL Referral 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912 12/1/1912Calculated Date: 30 Days After 13th Birthday 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913Calculated Date: 60 Days After Removal 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900 2/29/1900Due Date of Assessment 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913 1/30/1913

2009-2010 Life Skills (Age 15-17) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 8/17/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?Requirements<strong>Child</strong> Name<strong>Child</strong>'s Birthdate<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at RemovalReferralWas the child referred <strong>for</strong> Life Skills services?Mark N/A if the child was already referred or already receiving ILservices be<strong>for</strong>e age 15 and there<strong>for</strong>e doesn't need referral.Was this referral timely? Mark N/A if there was no referral.SourceDue:65C-28.009(6)(c) D65C-28.009(6)(c) DAssessmentHas an age-appropriate IL assessment been completed?Due:65C-28.009(6)(c) DIf the assessment was completed, was it completed timely? See due 65C-28.009(6)(c) Ddate calculated <strong>for</strong> each child. N/A if not completed.If the child received a pre-IL assessment as a 13-14 year old, did the 65C-28.009(6)(e) Dcurrent IL assessment measure skill development progress? N/A if nopre-IL assessment done.Did this assessment measure the child's current strengths th and needs? 65C-28.009(6)(e) ) DFor each needed life skill identified on the assessment, was it 65C-28.009(6)(e) Ddocumented in the child's case file who is responsible <strong>for</strong> helping thechild develop that skill and the timeframe <strong>for</strong> the child to receivetraining?StaffingHas a staffing been completed since the child turned fifteen? If no 409.1451(4)(b)3. Dstaffing is due, mark N/A.Is the most recent staffing current? If the staffing was completed since 409.1451(4)(b)3. Dthe child turned fifteen it should be no more than six months old. If thestaffing was completed be<strong>for</strong>e age 15 it should be no more than a yearold.Mark N/A if staffing has not been done since child's 15th bdayDid the most recent staffing address… x x x x x…delivery of IL services to meet assessed needs of the child? Note 409.1451(4)(b)3. Dthat if child was 14 when staffing was done, authority is409.1451(4)(a)3.DCF Contract Oversight Page 1 of 4

2009-2010 Life Skills (Age 15-17) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 8/17/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?Requirements<strong>Child</strong> Name<strong>Child</strong>'s Birthdate<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Removal...evaluation of child's progress in skill development? Note that if child 409.1451(4)(b)3. Dwas 14 when staffing was done, authority is 409.1451(4)(a)3....addressing educational and work goals, including child's progress? 65C-D28.009(4)(a)1....addressing any obstacles the child is facing in achieving educational 65C-Dand work goals?28.009(4)(a)1....addressing life skills the child needs? 65C-D28.009(4)(a)2....the child's progress toward already identified skills? 65C-D28.009(4)(a)2....address the subsidized independent living program, including 65C-Drequirements and benefits?28.009(4)(a)3.…provide in<strong>for</strong>mation on Road to Independence (RTI), Bright Futures 65C-Dprogram, and tuition fee exemption?28.009(4)(a)4....addressing permanency arrangements, t including i l child's wishes65C-Dregarding adoption.28.009(4)(a)5.Was in<strong>for</strong>mation related to the staffing put in writing and was it signed 409.1451(4)(b)5. Dby the child?Judicial ReviewsHas in<strong>for</strong>mation from current assessments and staffings been includedin the most recent JR?ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS FOR AGE 17 ONLYAge 17 IL AssessmentWas an IL assessment completed in the calendar month following thechild's 17th birthday? This is required to be a separate assessmentfrom earlier ones, and is to determine the child's ability to be selfsufficient.Special Judicial Review After 17th BirthdayWas the Special Judicial Review completed?65C-28.009(4)(b)6.SourceDDue:D409.1451(4)(b)4.and 65C-28.009(6)(g)1.Due:D39.701(6)(a) and(b)and 65C-28.009(9)(a)DCF Contract Oversight Page 2 of 4

2009-2010 Life Skills (Age 15-17) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 8/17/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?Requirements<strong>Child</strong> Name<strong>Child</strong>'s Birthdate<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at RemovalWas the Special Judicial Review completed on time? It is requiredwithin 90 days following the 17th birthday.Source39.701(6)(a) and D(b)and 65C-28.009(9)(a)65C-28.009(9)(b) DWas the required staffing completed prior to the Special JudicialReview?Was the required staffing completed on time? This means within the 65C-28.009(9)(b) D30 days prior to this Special Judicial Review.At the Special Judicial Review, was the court given written verificationthat the child received the following…...Current Medicaid card and in<strong>for</strong>mation regarding how to apply <strong>for</strong> 39.701(6)(a)1. Dcoverage upon reaching age 18 if appropriate?F.S.... A certified copy of the child's Birth Certificate? 39.701(6)(a)2. DF.S....A valid driver's license or a Florida identification card?39.701(6)(a)2.)2 DF.S....In<strong>for</strong>mation related to SSI benefits and a full accounting of any trust 39.701(6)(a)3. Dfunds if applicable?F.S....In<strong>for</strong>mation and training related to budgeting, interviewing, and 39.701(6)(a)4. Dparenting?F.S....All in<strong>for</strong>mation related to the Road to Independence <strong>Program</strong>? 39.701(6)(a)5. DF.S.…verification that the child has an open bank account, or has39.701(6)(a)6. Didentification necessary to open an account, and in<strong>for</strong>mation relating to F.S.essential banking skills been provided to the client?...In<strong>for</strong>mation on Public Assistance and how to apply?...A clear understanding of where they will be living on their 18Birthday, how living expenses will be paid, and what educationalprogram or school they will be enrolled in?39.701(6)(a)7.F.S.39.701(6)(a)8.F.S.DDx x x x xDCF Contract Oversight Page 3 of 4

2009-2010 Life Skills (Age 15-17) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 8/17/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?Requirements<strong>Child</strong> Name<strong>Child</strong>'s Birthdate<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Removal...Notice of the child's right to petition the Court <strong>for</strong> continuingjurisdiction <strong>for</strong> 1 year after the child's 18th birthday and in<strong>for</strong>mation onhow to obtain access to the court?...Encouragement to the child to attend all Judicial Review hearingsoccurring after his/her 17 Birthday?Was the Court given an updated case plan that includes specificin<strong>for</strong>mation related to all IL services that have been provided to thechild - since age 13 or since entering foster care?Was a transition plan filed with the court?39.701(6)(a)9.F.S.SourceD39.701(6)(a)10. DF.S.39.701(6)(b) D65C-28.009(9)(a) DHearing at about Age 17 1/2Was a hearing conducted within the calendar month beginning sixmonths prior to the child's 18th birthday?Assisting <strong>Child</strong> with Application <strong>for</strong> Services and Benefits Be<strong>for</strong>eAge 18Did the provider assist the child to make application <strong>for</strong> RTI,Transitional Services, or Aftercare no later than 90 days prior to thechild's 18th birthday?Due:39.013(8) D65C-28.009(9)(a)Due:65C-28.009(9)(e) DDate Calculator (Optional Use)Enter date of Special Judicial Review.Staffing should be held within 30 days be<strong>for</strong>e the Special JR.Thirty day period begins on:DCF Contract Oversight Page 4 of 4

Complete the white cells below and in the sample tables. For more than thirty children in a sample, start a new file.Provider Name:Provider City:Contract Number:Service Description:COU Team Member:Site Visit Date:Assigned COUBelow enter the actual date of the record review, or enter the last date of the review period.This date will be used to calculate children's ages and the length of time since removal.Subsidized IL (16-17) Sample 1-5 <strong>Child</strong> 1 <strong>Child</strong> 2 <strong>Child</strong> 3 <strong>Child</strong> 4 <strong>Child</strong> 5<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsDate of 16th Birthday 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 18th Birthday 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/191790 Days Following 17th Birthday 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917Date of six months prior to 18th birthday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917End of calendar month beginning six months prior 18th bday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917

Subsidized IL (16-17) Sample 6-10 <strong>Child</strong> 6 <strong>Child</strong> 7 <strong>Child</strong> 8 <strong>Child</strong> 9 <strong>Child</strong> 10<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsDate of 16th Birthday 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 18th Birthday 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/191790 Days Following 17th Birthday 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917Date of six months prior to 18th birthday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917End of calendar month beginning g six months prior 18th bday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917Subsidized IL (16-17) Sample 11-15 <strong>Child</strong> 11 <strong>Child</strong> 12 <strong>Child</strong> 13 <strong>Child</strong> 14 <strong>Child</strong> 15<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsDate of 16th Birthday 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 18th Birthday 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/191790 Days Following 17th Birthday 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917

Date of six months prior to 18th birthday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917End of calendar month beginning six months prior 18th bday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917Subsidized IL (16-17) Sample 16-20 <strong>Child</strong> 16 <strong>Child</strong> 17 <strong>Child</strong> 18 <strong>Child</strong> 19 <strong>Child</strong> 20<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsDate of 16th Birthday 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 18th Birthday 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/191790 Days Following 17th Birthday 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917Date of six months prior to 18th birthday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917End of calendar month beginning six months prior 18th bday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917Subsidized d IL (16-17) 17) Sample 20-25 25 <strong>Child</strong> 21 <strong>Child</strong> 22 <strong>Child</strong> 23 <strong>Child</strong> 24 <strong>Child</strong> 25<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!

Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsDate of 16th Birthday 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 18th Birthday 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/191790 Days Following 17th Birthday 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917Date of six months prior to 18th birthday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917End of calendar month beginning six months prior 18th bday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917Subsidized IL (16-17) Sample 26-30 <strong>Child</strong> 26 <strong>Child</strong> 27 <strong>Child</strong> 28 <strong>Child</strong> 29 <strong>Child</strong> 30<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth<strong>Child</strong> Most Recent Date of Entry into Licensed CareCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months - Time of Removal 0 0 0 0 0<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Removal 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mths 0 yrs 0 mthsDate of 16th Birthday 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915 12/31/1915Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 18th Birthday 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/1917 12/30/191790 Days Following 17th Birthday 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917 3/31/1917Date of six months prior to 18th birthday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917End of calendar month beginning six months prior 18th bday 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917 6/30/1917

Complete the white cells below and in the sample tables. For more than thirty children in a sample, start a new file.Provider Name:Provider City:Contract Number:Service Description:COU Team Member:Site Visit Date:Assigned COU:Below enter the actual date of the record review, or enter the last date of the review period.This date will be used to calculate children's ages and the length of time since removal.IL Transitional Support (18-22) Sample 1-5 <strong>Child</strong> 1 <strong>Child</strong> 2 <strong>Child</strong> 3 <strong>Child</strong> 4 <strong>Child</strong> 5<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of BirthCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 23rd Birthday 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Transitional Support (18-22) Sample 6-10 <strong>Child</strong> 6 <strong>Child</strong> 7 <strong>Child</strong> 8 <strong>Child</strong> 9 <strong>Child</strong> 10<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial

<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of BirthCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 23rd Birthday 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Transitional Support (18-22) Sample 11-15 <strong>Child</strong> 11 <strong>Child</strong> 12 <strong>Child</strong> 13 <strong>Child</strong> 14 <strong>Child</strong> 15<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of BirthCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 23rd Birthday 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Transitional Support (18-22) Sample 16-20 <strong>Child</strong> 16 <strong>Child</strong> 17 <strong>Child</strong> 18 <strong>Child</strong> 19 <strong>Child</strong> 20<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of Birth

Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 23rd Birthday 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Transitional Support (18-22) Sample 20-25 <strong>Child</strong> 21 <strong>Child</strong> 22 <strong>Child</strong> 23 <strong>Child</strong> 24 <strong>Child</strong> 25<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of BirthCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 23rd Birthday 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Transitional Support (18-22) Sample 26-30 <strong>Child</strong> 26 <strong>Child</strong> 27 <strong>Child</strong> 28 <strong>Child</strong> 29 <strong>Child</strong> 30<strong>Child</strong> Last Name, First Initial<strong>Child</strong> Record Number<strong>Child</strong> Date of BirthCalculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: <strong>Child</strong>'s Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!

<strong>Child</strong>'s Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date Be<strong>for</strong>e 23rd Birthday 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922

2009-2010 Road to Independence (18-22) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 11/05/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?RequirementsYouth NameYouth's BirthdateYouth's Age at Time of ReviewDate of Youth's 18th BirthdayLast Date be<strong>for</strong>e Youth's 21st BirthdayDate that is 90 days prior to last birthday <strong>for</strong> renewalsEligibility:Is there documentation in the case file/FSFN that the youth was<strong>for</strong>merly a dependent child, under Chapter 39?See comment <strong>for</strong> acceptable documentation.409.1451(5)(b)2.a., F.S. and65C-31.004(1)(a)2.a., F.A.C.Is there documentation in the case file/FSFN that the youth was living 409.1451(5)(b)in licensed foster care or in subsidized independent living at the time of 2.a., F.S. andhis or her 18th birthday, or was adopted or placed with dependency 65Cguardianthrough the department after reaching age 16?31.004(1)(a)3.,See comment <strong>for</strong> acceptable documentation of living in foster care to F.A.C.18th birthday. There is no specific documentation requirement <strong>for</strong> theFor adoptionadoption situation.65C-31.004(1)(b)Is there documentation in the case file that the child spent at least sixmonths living in foster care be<strong>for</strong>e reaching his or her 18th birthday, orif placed with a dependency guardian or adopted through thedepartment spent at least six months living in foster care immediatelyprior to the adoption/placement?See comment <strong>for</strong> acceptable documentation of six months in fostercare prior to 18th birthday. There is no specific documentationrequirement <strong>for</strong> the adoption situation.409.1451(5)(b)2.a. and b.,F.S. and 65C-31.004(1)(a),F.A.C.For Adoption65C-31.004(1)(b)Is there documentation the child is a resident of Florida as defined in s. 409.1451(5)(b)1009.40?2.c., F.S. andAcceptable documentation is a FL drivers license or ID card, copy of an 65Celectricbill, a copy of a lease, a copy of a school enrollment <strong>for</strong>m, a 31.004(1)(a)5.,copy of an RTI check, etc.F.A.C.SourceDCF Contract Oversight Page 1 of 6

2009-2010 Road to Independence (18-22) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 11/05/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?RequirementsSourceYouth NameYouth's BirthdateYouth's Age at Time of ReviewDate of Youth's 18th BirthdayLast Date be<strong>for</strong>e Youth's 21st BirthdayDate that is 90 days prior to last birthday <strong>for</strong> renewalsDid the young adult make the initial application <strong>for</strong> the award prior tohis or her 21st birthday?In addition, young adult meets full time enrollment standards at leastone of the following:Enrolled in an accredited high school or Enrolled or admitted to a postsecondary educational institution or Enrolled in an accredited adulteducational program with a goal of a high school diploma or itsequivalent?Based on the above questions, is the young adult receiving serviceseligible <strong>for</strong> RTI?Must be Yes <strong>for</strong> all questions.65C-31.004(1)(a),F.A.C.409.1451(5)(b)2.d., F.S.65C-31.004(1)(a)6.,F.A.C.409.1451(5)(b)2., F.S. and65C-31.004(1)(a)and (b), F.A.C.Initial RTI Application RequirementIs an RTI Scholarship Application completed and signed by the student, 65C-31.004(1),reviewing authority and approval authority?F.A.C.Has the young adult applied <strong>for</strong> any other grants and scholarships <strong>for</strong>which he or she may qualify and did the provider assist the young adultin the application process?Documentation of Education Requirements409.1451(5)(b)3., F.S.DCF Contract Oversight Page 2 of 6

2009-2010 Road to Independence (18-22) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 11/05/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?RequirementsYouth NameYouth's BirthdateYouth's Age at Time of ReviewDate of Youth's 18th BirthdayLast Date be<strong>for</strong>e Youth's 21st BirthdayDate that is 90 days prior to last birthday <strong>for</strong> renewalsIs full-time enrollment by the student in vocational school, high schoolor GED documented by placement in the case file of an enrollment<strong>for</strong>m or letter from the school that states that he or she is a full-timestudent?(N/A if not this type of student or ADA exception)At the end of each semester did the student provide a report cardshowing completion of classes registered <strong>for</strong> previously? A copy is tobe placed in the case file.At the end of each semester did the student provide an enrollment <strong>for</strong>mor letter from the educational institution showing full-time enrollment <strong>for</strong>the following semester? A copy is to be placed in the case file.Is full-time enrollment by the student in university, college or communitycollege documented by placement in the case file of at least one of thefollowing documents?(I) A current enrollment <strong>for</strong>m or letter from the institution clearlyshowing the student enrolled <strong>for</strong> at least 12 credit hours.(II) If the student is enrolled fewer than 12 hours, a current enrollment<strong>for</strong>m or letter from the institution stating that the student is enrolled fulltime.(N/A if not university or college student or ADA exception)65C-31.006(3)(a)3.a., F.A.C.65C-31.004(1)(c)1.b., F.A.C. <strong>for</strong>initialapplication65C-31.006(3)(a)3.b., F.A.C.65C-31.006(3)(a)3.d.(I), F.A.C.65C-31.006(3)(a)3.d.(II), F.A.C.RTI Renewal Application RequirementDid the provider evaluate and renew each award annually during the 90-409.1451(5)(b)day period be<strong>for</strong>e the young adult's birthday?6.i., F.S. andN/A if the youth has not had a birthday since beginning RTI benefits. 65C-31.004(2),F.A.C.SourceDCF Contract Oversight Page 3 of 6

2009-2010 Road to Independence (18-22) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 11/05/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?RequirementsSourceYouth NameYouth's BirthdateYouth's Age at Time of ReviewDate of Youth's 18th BirthdayLast Date be<strong>for</strong>e Youth's 21st BirthdayDate that is 90 days prior to last birthday <strong>for</strong> renewalsIf the award was renewed, did the young adult meet eligibility <strong>for</strong> themost recent renewal by completing full time attendance as defined bythe educational institution during the prior award period?N/A <strong>for</strong> a young adult who meets the requirements of s. 1009.41 byhaving a documented disability meeting ADA requirementsIf the award was renewed, did the young adult meet eligibility <strong>for</strong> themost recent renewal by maintaining appropriate progress as requiredby the educational institution during the prior award period?If the young adult's progress is insufficient to renew the scholarship atany time during the eligibility period, the young adult may restoreeligibility by improving his or her progress to the required level.409.1451(5)(b)6.i., F.S.65C-31.004(2)(a),F.A.C.409.1451(5)(b)6.i., F.S.Is an RTI Renewal Checklist, CF-FSP 5296, completed and signed bythe student, reviewing authority, and approval authority?65C-31.004(2)(b),FAC F.A.C.65C-31.006(3)(b)1.,F.A.C.For Initial RTI Application, Renewal, and ReinstatementWas an assessment of the funding needs of the young adult completed 409.1451(5)(b)to determine the amount of the award?4., F.S.This is required <strong>for</strong> the initial award.65C-31.004(4),F.A.C.Did the assessment of funding needs consider living and educationalcosts?409.1451(5)(b)4., F.S. and65C-31.004(4)(a),F.A.C.DCF Contract Oversight Page 4 of 6

2009-2010 Road to Independence (18-22) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 11/05/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?RequirementsSourceYouth NameYouth's BirthdateYouth's Age at Time of ReviewDate of Youth's 18th BirthdayLast Date be<strong>for</strong>e Youth's 21st BirthdayDate that is 90 days prior to last birthday <strong>for</strong> renewalsDid the assessment of funding needs consider other grants,scholarships, waivers, earnings, and other income?Did the extent of the award only provide <strong>for</strong> the difference between theliving and educational needs determined by the assessment and whatthe young adult is receiving from other grants and scholarships?Federal Requirments: The total amount of educational assistance tothe young adult shall not exceed the young adult's cost of attendance.409.1451(5)(b)4., F.S. and65C-31.004(4)(a),F.A.C.409.1451(5)(b)4., F.S.65C-31.004(4)(b),F.A.C.Have payments of $1,256.00 or less per month been made?Was the entire RTI award payment being made to the recipient? If not,is there a request in writing from the youth <strong>for</strong> an alternativedistribution?409.1451(5)(b)1., F.S..65C-31.004(5),F.A.C.RTI Documentation RequirementsDid the case file contain chronological entries of contacts made? 65C-31.006(3)(a)1.b., F.A.C.Is there a log of financial disbursements? 65C-31.006(3)(a)1.d., F.A.C.ReinstatementDCF Contract Oversight Page 5 of 6

2009-2010 Road to Independence (18-22) Monitoring ToolProvider Name: COU Team Member: Provider City: Site Visit Date: Contract Number: Assigned COU: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Date of Tool Revision: 11/05/2009Review Files As Of: COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THE "PROVIDER AND SAMPLE INFO" SHEET TO POPULATE CHILD CALCULATIONS AND TOOL HEADERS.AuthorityFully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met? Fully Met?RequirementsYouth NameYouth's BirthdateYouth's Age at Time of ReviewDate of Youth's 18th BirthdayLast Date be<strong>for</strong>e Youth's 21st BirthdayDate that is 90 days prior to last birthday <strong>for</strong> renewalsIf the student applied <strong>for</strong> reinstatement, is the completed <strong>for</strong>m “Road toIndependence Scholarship and/or Education Training Vouchers (ETV)Funds Reinstatement Application”, CF-FSP 5297, September 2005, inthe file, and was it signed by the student, reviewing authority, andapproval authority?65C-31.006(3)(c)1., F.A.C.SourceDCF Contract Oversight Page 6 of 6

Complete the white cells below and in the sample tables. For more than thirty children in a sample, start a new file.Provider Name: Provider City: Contract Number: Service Description: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>COU Team Member: Site Visit Date: Assigned COU: Below enter the actual date of the record review, or enter the last date of the review period.This date will be used to calculate children's ages and the length of time since removal.IL Aftercare (18-22) Sample 1-5 <strong>Child</strong> 1 <strong>Child</strong> 2 <strong>Child</strong> 3 <strong>Child</strong> 4 <strong>Child</strong> 5Youth Last Name, First InitialYouth Record NumberYouth Date of BirthCalculated: Youth's Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: Youth's Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Youth's Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of the Youth's 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date the Youth is 22 Years Old 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Aftercare (18-22) Sample 6-10 <strong>Child</strong> 6 <strong>Child</strong> 7 <strong>Child</strong> 8 <strong>Child</strong> 9 <strong>Child</strong> 10Youth Last Name, First InitialYouth Record NumberYouth Date of BirthCalculated: Youth's Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: Youth's Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!

Youth's Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of the Youth's 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date the Youth is 22 Years Old 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Aftercare (18-22) Sample 11-15 <strong>Child</strong> 11 <strong>Child</strong> 12 <strong>Child</strong> 13 <strong>Child</strong> 14 <strong>Child</strong> 15Youth Last Name, First InitialYouth Record NumberYouth Date of BirthCalculated: Youth's Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: Youth's Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Youth's Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of the Youth's 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date the Youth is 22 Years Old 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Aftercare (18-22) Sample 16-20 <strong>Child</strong> 16 <strong>Child</strong> 17 <strong>Child</strong> 18 <strong>Child</strong> 19 <strong>Child</strong> 20Youth Last Name, First InitialYouth Record NumberYouth Date of BirthCalculated: Youth's Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: Youth's Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Youth's Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of the Youth's 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date the Youth is 22 Years Old 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Aftercare (18-22) Sample 20-25 <strong>Child</strong> 21 <strong>Child</strong> 22 <strong>Child</strong> 23 <strong>Child</strong> 24 <strong>Child</strong> 25Youth Last Name, First InitialYouth Record Number

Youth Date of BirthCalculated: Youth's Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: Youth's Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Youth's Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of the Youth's 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date the Youth is 22 Years Old 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922IL Aftercare (18-22) Sample 26-30 <strong>Child</strong> 26 <strong>Child</strong> 27 <strong>Child</strong> 28 <strong>Child</strong> 29 <strong>Child</strong> 30Youth Last Name, First InitialYouth Record NumberYouth Date of BirthCalculated: Youth's Age in Years #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Calculated: Youth's Age in Months #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Youth's Age at Time of Review #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE!Date of the Youth's 18th Birthday 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917 12/31/1917Last Date the Youth is 22 Years Old 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922 12/30/1922

OPPAGA andChapter 05Auditor GeneralReviews andReports

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119AUDITOR GENERALWILLIAM O. MONROE, CPADEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICESINDEPENDENT LIVING TRANSITION SERVICES PROGRAMOperational AuditSUMMARYThe Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Family Servicesis responsible <strong>for</strong> administering a system ofindependent living transition services to enableolder children in foster care and young adults whobecome ineligible <strong>for</strong> foster care at age 18 to makethe transition to self-sufficiency as adults. The<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Transition Services (ILTS)<strong>Program</strong> assists teens and young adults who meetcertain eligibility requirements to obtain life skillsand education <strong>for</strong> independent living andemployment. Expenditures <strong>for</strong> ILTS servicesduring the 2003-04 fiscal year totaledapproximately $17.3 million. Approximately $16.4million is budgeted <strong>for</strong> ILTS <strong>for</strong> the 2004-05 fiscalyear.Chapter 2004-362, Laws of Florida, directed theAuditor General to conduct an audit of the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Transition Services <strong>Program</strong>. 1The audit primarily covered the period October2002 through September 2004, and disclosed:Finding No. 1: A comparison of the datasystems used by the Department to record andreport ILTS data disclosed significant differences.As a result, the Department and the Legislaturecannot be assured as to the completeness andaccuracy of in<strong>for</strong>mation needed to make decisionsregarding long-term funding and the provision ofservices <strong>for</strong> the ILTS <strong>Program</strong>.Finding No. 2: Department districts andcontracted Community-Based Care agencies(CBCs) did not ensure only eligible youth wereprovided Young Adult (YA) services and did notalways document how initial and ongoingeligibility requirements were determined.Finding No. 3: YA payments totalingapproximately $542,000 were made to clients inexcess of the fiscal year spending caps.Finding No. 4: The Department did noteffectively implement a needs assessment policy<strong>for</strong> Road-to-Independence (RTI) scholarshiprecipients until December 27, 2004. Additionally,the needs assessment instrument <strong>for</strong> high schoolrecipients did not require the determination ofactual need as the basis <strong>for</strong> the benefit amount.Finding No. 5: The districts and CBCs did notalways complete the required skills assessments<strong>for</strong> teens ages 13 up to 18, nor document thatILTS <strong>Program</strong> services were provided to theteens. Furthermore, the Department has notpromulgated rules, or established written policiesand procedures, addressing the provision of ILTS<strong>Program</strong> services to teens ages 13 up to 18.1 Chapter 2004-362, Laws of Florida, also directed the Office of <strong>Program</strong>Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) to developrecommendations <strong>for</strong> the minimum system standards <strong>for</strong> ILTS. SeeOPPAGA Report No. 04-78.Page 1 of 20

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119BACKGROUNDThe <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Transition Services (ILTS)<strong>Program</strong> assists older children in foster care and youngadults who become ineligible <strong>for</strong> foster care at age 18to obtain life skills and education to make thetransition to independent living and employment.According to Department accounting records,approximately $17.3 million was expended in the2003-04 fiscal year <strong>for</strong> the ILTS <strong>Program</strong>. Theservices are primarily funded from the Chafee Federalgrant and State match.The ILTS <strong>Program</strong> assists two age groups of childrenand young adults. Teens in foster care ages 13 up to18 are eligible to receive Pre-<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>, LifeSkills, and Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> (SIL)services, hereafter cumulatively referred to as Teenservices. Young adults (ages 18 up to 23) who were<strong>for</strong>merly in foster care may receive Young Adult (YA)services that include Aftercare, Road-to-Independence(RTI) Scholarships, and Transitional Support. Exhibit1 of this report describes the various ILTS withdemographic in<strong>for</strong>mation.During the past two years the Department has beentransitioning <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> services, including theILTS <strong>Program</strong>, to Community-Based Care agencies(CBCs) (See Exhibit 4). While the Department isresponsible <strong>for</strong> establishing rules, policies, andprocedures <strong>for</strong> the ILTS <strong>Program</strong>, the services areprovided through the CBCs. The CBCs areresponsible <strong>for</strong> planning, administering, andcoordinating the delivery of client services; ensuringcompliance with State laws and Federal regulations(including eligibility determination); and makingpayments to service providers or disbursementsdirectly to the youth.FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONSFinding No. 1:Financial Data ReliabilityThe Department uses a myriad of data systems torecord and report <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> financial and programdata:‣ FLAIR. Prior to transitioning to CBCs,Department districts recorded payments made<strong>for</strong> ILTS in the State’s accounting system(FLAIR). However, upon transition, only thecontract payments made to the CBCs arerecorded in FLAIR. Specific in<strong>for</strong>mationrelated to CBC expenditures <strong>for</strong> ILTS servicesare recorded in individual CBC accountingsystems.‣ ICWSIS. The districts and CBCs use theIntegrated <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> Services In<strong>for</strong>mationSystem (ICWSIS) to maintain <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong>client placement and financial data relatedonly to payments made to clients (e.g.,Aftercare, RTI Scholarships). ICWSISproduces invoices that are batched anduploaded by the districts into the CWVSdescribed below. CBCs include the invoicesas part of the support <strong>for</strong> their requests <strong>for</strong>contract payments.‣ CWVS. The <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> VoucheringSystem (CWVS) is a client in<strong>for</strong>mationdatabase which edits invoices <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong><strong>Welfare</strong> services and, <strong>for</strong> districts that havenot transitioned to CBCs, produces vouchersthat are uploaded into FLAIR <strong>for</strong> payment.‣ HomeSafenet. Over the past several years,the Department has been developing andimplementing HomeSafenet to manage <strong>Child</strong><strong>Welfare</strong> related data. HomeSafenet does notcurrently include financial data. TheDepartment plans <strong>for</strong> full functionality ofHomeSafenet to include financial data andeventual phasing out of ICWSIS and CWVS.As shown in Table 1, our review of the financial datamaintained in each of these systems disclosedsignificant differences.Page 2 of 20

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119Table 1.Comparison of ILTS <strong>Program</strong> Expenditures in Fiscal Year 2003-04ICWSIS CWVS FLAIRYA ServicesTransitional $ 2,250,756.40 $ 1,435,421.98 $ (a)Aftercare 324,172.25 136,097.47 2,278,091.73RTI Scholarships 8,199,526.10 6,358,715.21 6,621,213.35Education and Training Vouchers 948,217.00 870,832.52 869,944.08Total YA Services 11,722,671.75 8,801,067.18 9,769,249.16Teen ServicesPre-<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> and Life Skills (b) (b)7,312,870.26Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> (SIL) 657,733.76 342,946.02(a)Total Teen Services 657,733.76 342,946.02 7,312,870.26Headquarters Expenditures (b) (b) 291,998.78Total ILTS Expenditures $ 12,380,405.51 $ 9,144,013.20 $ 17,374,118.20(a) Included in Aftercare amount.(b) ICWSIS and CWVS are designed only to capture data related to payments to clients and certain payments on their behalf.The Department does not per<strong>for</strong>m reconciliations ofthe systems and, as a result, cannot accurately reportthe costs associated with ILTS. Factors thatcomplicate the reconciliation process include:‣ Adjustments to ICWSIS may be made afterthe fiscal year-end, but may not be enteredinto CWVS after the CWVS closeout period.‣ ICWSIS and CWVS are designed to maintainonly data related to payments made to clientsor certain payments made on their behalf.There<strong>for</strong>e, expenditures <strong>for</strong> programadministration and payments to serviceproviders are recorded in FLAIR, but notICWSIS or CWVS.‣ Expenditures <strong>for</strong> the types of YA and SILservices are readily identifiable in ICWSIS andCWVS through use of an expenditure typecode that is not available in FLAIR.‣ ICWSIS is maintained at the district level anddoes not provide a means to efficiently extractand report in<strong>for</strong>mation on a Statewide basis.Additionally, Department headquarterspersonnel do not have the ability to extractand report ICWSIS data, but must requestneeded in<strong>for</strong>mation from the SuncoastRegion.The Department has implemented a Spending PlanAnalysis process to assist in collecting and monitoringbudget and expenditure data of the districts and CBCs.Exhibit 2 and Exhibit 3 of this report provideschedules of 2004-05 fiscal year budget, expendituresand projected surpluses (deficits) <strong>for</strong> the various typesof ILTS. The projected 2004-05 fiscal year deficitranges from approximately $1.4 million (based onactual expenditures at December 31, 2004) to $3million (based on district projections). The absence ofaccurate and reliable financial data, in conjunction withthe other findings in this report, has contributed to thefinancial condition of the ILTS <strong>Program</strong>.Federal funding <strong>for</strong> the ILTS <strong>Program</strong> will decrease asthe State’s foster care population continues todecrease. There<strong>for</strong>e, it is imperative that theDepartment and the Legislature have complete andaccurate in<strong>for</strong>mation to make decisions regardingfunding and provision of services <strong>for</strong> the ILTS<strong>Program</strong>.Recommendation: We recommend theDepartment continue to pursue the completion ofHomeSafenet and phase out the ICWSIS andCWVS legacy systems. In the interim, periodicreconciliations of the financial data in theICWSIS, CWVS, FLAIR, and the Spending Plansshould be per<strong>for</strong>med.Page 3 of 20

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119Finding No. 2: YA Eligibility DeterminationYoung adults (ages 18 up to 23) that were <strong>for</strong>merly infoster care are eligible <strong>for</strong> YA services. TheDepartment’s ICWSIS reported that payments totaling$11.7 million were made to young adults during the2003-04 fiscal year.To receive YA services, individuals must meet andmaintain eligibility requirements set <strong>for</strong>th in Federalregulations, State law, or Department policy (SeeExhibit 1). Although the Department established anddisseminated to the districts and CBCs guidelines thataddressed an implementation plan, standardapplications, <strong>for</strong>m letters, and established spendingcaps, the districts and CBCs did not document thedetermination of how initial eligibility requirements orthe ongoing maintenance of eligibility <strong>for</strong> renewedservices were determined <strong>for</strong> 77 percent of the youngadults reviewed in our tests. Additionally, based onthe documentation provided, some young adultsreceived services <strong>for</strong> which they were not eligible.Table 2 provides the demographics related to ourreview of the case files <strong>for</strong> 60 young adults andTable 3 provides a schedule of the deficiencies noted.Recommendation: We recommend theDepartment enhance its technical assistance andmonitoring procedures to ensure that the districtsand CBCs provide services only to eligible youngadults and sufficiently document initial andongoing eligibility determinations <strong>for</strong> YA services.Table 2.Schedule of YA Cases Selected <strong>for</strong> TestingDistrict(a)41011Service Type No. of Post-Case Files SecondaryRTI Scholarship<strong>Program</strong> TypeHighSchoolGED<strong>Program</strong>Amount Paidin the 2003-04Fiscal YearAftercare 1 $ 540.00Scholarships 9 4 2 3 76,712.00Transitional 5 15,794.2215 93,046.22Aftercare 0 -Scholarships 8 3 3 2 64,764.00Transitional 7 34,255.9715 99,019.97Aftercare 4 5,757.07Scholarships 18 9 4 5 166,744.00Transitional 8 32,861.0030 205,362.07Total Aftercare 5 6,297.07Scholarships 35 16 9 10 308,220.00Transitional 20 82,911.1960 $ 397,428.26Post-Secondary Institutions8 Universities4 Community Colleges4 Vocational Technical Institutions(a) District 4 began transitioning services to CBCs June 2003-March 2004.District 10 began transitioning services to the CBC June 2003.District 11 had not begun transitioning services to the CBC, as of January 15, 2005.Table 3.Schedule of Noted DeficienciesDistrictService TypeFoster CareRequirementNot MetAge RequirementNot Met atInitialApplication DateApprovedInitialApplicationNot ProvidedAppropriateInitial Proof ofEligibility NotProvidedProof ofOngoingEligibilityNot ProvidedSpendingCapsExceededAmount inExcess ofSpending Caps(a)Amount ofQuestionedPayments4 Aftercare $ - $ -Scholarships 1 1 6 - 49,952.00Transitional 2 2 3 1 3,920.00 10,086.221 2 3 9 1 $ 3,920.00 $ 60,038.2210 Aftercare $ - $ -Scholarships 1 1 - 21,948.00Transitional 2 4 4,020.77 11,344.501 3 4 $ 4,020.77 $ 33,292.5011 Aftercare 2 3 4 $ 1,757.07 $ 4,500.00Scholarships 1 7 7 1 892.00 105,196.00Transitional 1 1 1 6 1 4,812.00 25,737.001 1 3 11 13 6 $ 7,461.07 $ 135,433.00Total Aftercare 2 3 4 $ 1,757.07 $ 4,500.00Scholarships 1 2 8 14 1 892.00 177,096.00Transitional 1 3 3 11 6 12,752.77 47,167.72(a) Amounts are also included in Finding No. 3.2 2 5 14 25 11 $ 15,401.84 $ 228,763.72Page 4 of 20

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119Finding No. 3: YA Spending CapsAs described in Exhibit 1, the various YA servicesprovided to young adults are subject to annualspending caps. Our analysis of ICWSIS-reported YAexpenditures <strong>for</strong> the 2003-04 fiscal year disclosed that253 clients (11 percent) received payments totalingapproximately $542,000 in excess of the spending capsestablished <strong>for</strong> YA services:‣ Aftercare. 106 of 200 clients receivedpayments totaling $169,382 in excess of the$1,000 per fiscal year spending cap.‣ RTI Scholarships. 40 of 1,267 clientsreceived payments totaling $31,980 in excessof the $10,704 per fiscal year spending cap.‣ Transitional Support. 107 of 800 clientsreceived payments totaling $340,186 in excessof the $5,000 per fiscal year spending cap.Some districts and CBCs indicated they were notaware of the spending caps <strong>for</strong> Aftercare andTransitional Support. Staff also indicated thatAftercare and Transitional Support spending capswere sometimes exceeded on a case-by-case basis dueto emergency needs of the young adults. In otherinstances, posting errors to the financial recordsresulted in spending caps being exceeded.Recommendation: We recommend theDepartment enhance its technical assistance andmonitoring procedures (e.g., exception reportingor system edit checking) to ensure payments toclients do not exceed the established spendingcaps. The Department should establish writtenpolicies and procedures to address whetherAftercare and Transitional Support spending capsmay be exceeded in certain situations and thedocumentation requirements related to thoseinstances.Finding No. 4: RTI Scholarship NeedsAssessmentsRTI scholarships provide young adults enrolled inhigh school, GED programs, and post-secondaryeducational institutions with funds <strong>for</strong> living andeducational expenses. Effective June 24, 2004,Page 5 of 20Chapter 2004-362, Laws of Florida, required thedistricts and CBCs to determine the amount of an RTIscholarship award based on the living and educationalneeds of the young adult. In accordance with therequirements of the law, the Department issued toolsand instructions in September 2004, to be used incompleting needs assessments. However, in responseto concerns that decreasing benefits, as a result of theassessments, would be detrimental to the young adults,the Department notified the districts and CBCs onDecember 1, 2004, to immediately discontinue theimplementation of the needs assessment process.Additionally, the Department instructed the districtsand CBCs to reinstate payment amounts to themaximum $892 per month and to retroactively pay <strong>for</strong>any prior benefit periods during the fiscal year <strong>for</strong>which the client did not receive $892.On December 27, 2004, the Department issued newguidelines and assessment documents. The districtsand CBCs are required to use these documents toprepare a needs assessment <strong>for</strong> all new and existingclients by April 1, 2005. Our review of thesedocuments disclosed that generally, the needsassessment <strong>for</strong> postsecondary students was sufficientto identify all needs and available resources. However,<strong>for</strong> high school students, the needs assessment processdid not require determining the living and educationalneeds (cost of attendance) as a basis <strong>for</strong> the benefitamount. Instead, the Department set the cost ofattendance at the statutory maximum annual awardamount of $10,704.According to Department personnel, after review ofmultiple costs of attendance figures, the Departmentdetermined that the maximum allowed by State lawwould be the most appropriate figure.Notwithstanding the Department’s explanation, sincethe $10,704 statutory maximum amount is computedbased on the income from a 40-hour per weekminimum wage job, it is not clear why requiring a highschool student to prepare a budget based on actualexpenses would not be a better indicator of the livingand educational needs of the young adult.

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119Recommendation: We recommend theDepartment review the needs assessment process<strong>for</strong> high school students and assess need based ona more accurate estimate of living and educationalneeds as required by law, such as preparing anindividual budget. Such an exercise would notonly be a more fiscally sound approach todetermining the amount needed, but providestudents with an opportunity to learn budgetpreparation and financial management skills.Finding No. 5: Teen Assessments andParticipationTo facilitate successful transition into adulthood,Section 409.1451(4), Florida Statutes, requires theDepartment to provide Pre-<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> andLife Skills services (See Exhibit 1). The specificservices to be provided should be based on a Pre-<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> assessment <strong>for</strong> children at age 13and a Life Skills assessment <strong>for</strong> children at age 15.We requested all relevant documentation as of theeffective date of the law, October 2002, <strong>for</strong> 42 fostercare teens (ages 13 up to 18) in Districts 7 and 11 andthe Suncoast Region. In total, the 42 cases reviewedshould have had 55 assessments completed as ofSeptember 30, 2004. Our review disclosed:Assessment‣ Only 36 of the 55 assessments due during theperiod October 2002 through September 2004were provided <strong>for</strong> our review.‣ Of the 36 provided <strong>for</strong> our review, only 5were completed in a timely manner (i.e.,within 45 days of the due date). Theremaining 31 assessments were per<strong>for</strong>med anaverage of 10.1 months after the date due.‣ No assessments were provided <strong>for</strong> 8 teens.‣ The average age of the teens when receivingtheir first assessment was 15.05 years.Participation‣ For 10 of the 42 cases reviewed,documentation (e.g., signed rosters, casenotes) was sufficient to demonstrate Teenservices were delivered and the teenparticipated in the services. However, <strong>for</strong> 21Page 6 of 20of the cases, no documentation was availableto evidence that services had been deliveredto the teens.‣ For the remaining 11 cases, the district orCBC indicated that Teen services weredelivered, but documentation evidencing thatthe teens actually participated in the serviceswas not available.The Department provides technical assistance to thedistricts and CBCs, including periodic meetings with<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> coordinators. However, theDepartment has not promulgated rules nor establishedwritten policies and procedures addressing Teenservices to youth in foster care, other than thoserelated to Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> services.Recommendation: We recommend that theDepartment promulgate rules as required by lawand establish written policies and procedures thatspecifically address the completion of Teenassessments, including time frames in which theassessments should be completed. We alsorecommend that the Department enhance itstechnical assistance and monitoring procedures toensure sufficient documentation is maintained todemonstrate that appropriate Teen services wereoffered to and participated in by the teens.OBJECTIVES, SCOPE, AND METHODOLOGYThe scope of our audit focused on the Department’s<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Transition Services <strong>Program</strong>.Specific objectives included determining:‣ The resources used to fund the ILTS<strong>Program</strong>, the amount expended <strong>for</strong> thevarious types of program services, andwhether ILTS expenditures were necessary,reasonable, and in compliance with Federalregulations, State law, and Department policy.‣ Whether the Department’s eligibilitydetermination process was effective andappropriate documentation maintained tosupport client eligibility.‣ Whether the Department’s assessmentprocess of clients’ needs was effective andappropriately documented.‣ Whether selected management controlspromoted and encouraged the achievement of

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119management’s objectives, of compliance withcontrolling laws, administrative rules, andother guidelines; the economic, efficient, andeffective operation of the Department; andthe reliability of records and reports.In conducting our audit, we interviewed auditeepersonnel, observed processes and procedures, andcompleted various analyses and other procedures asdetermined necessary. The audit includedexaminations of various transactions (as well as eventsand conditions) occurring during the period October2002 through September 2004.AUTHORITYPursuant to the provisions of Section 11.45, FloridaStatutes, I have directed that this report be prepared topresent the results of our operational audit.William O. Monroe, CPAAuditor GeneralAUDITEE RESPONSEIn a letter dated February 8, 2005, the Secretary of theDepartment provided her response to our findingsand recommendations. The letter may be viewed in itsentirety at the end of this report.Page 7 of 20

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119Exhibit 1<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Transition Services <strong>Program</strong>Eligibility Requirements<strong>Program</strong> ComponentsandTypes of ServicesExamples of SpecificServices ProvidedAge GroupServedFoster CareStatusInitialRequest ForServices ByInitialDeterminationBasisAcademicRequirementsOngoingDeterminationBasisSpending CapsClientCount(a)Teen ServicesPre-<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Training related toself care,social development,work and study habits,money management, etc.13 up to 15 Current N/ANeedsAssessmentN/APeriodicEvaluationsN/A 1,848Life SkillsTraining related tobanking and budgeting skills,interviewing skills,parenting skills,educational support,employment training,counseling, etc.15 up to 18 Current N/ANeedsAssessmentN/AEvaluationsevery 6 monthsN/A 3,429Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> (SIL)<strong>Living</strong> arrangements that allowthe child to live independently of16 up to 18the daily care and supervision ofan adultAt least 6months priorto enteringSILN/ADemonstrate ILskillsN/AContinue todemonstrate ILskillsN/A 374Total IL 5,651Young Adult (YA) ServicesAftercareMentoring, tutoring,mental health services,substance abuse counseling,parenting classes,job skills training,counselor consultations,temporary financial assistance,etc.18 up to 23Leave foster Prior to agecare at age 18 23NeedsAssessmentN/ANon-recurring$1,000 perfiscal year200Transitional SupportShort-term services, includingfinancial, housing, counseling,18 up to 23employment, education, mentalhealth, disability, etc.In foster careor SIL at age18 and 6months priorto age 18Prior to age23Demonstrateservices arecritical toachievingself-sufficiencyTransition PlanN/AQuarterlyevaluations todemonstratecontinual need$5,000 perfiscal year800Road-to-Independence (RTI)ScholarshipsProvide funds to studentspursuing educational goals tomeet living and educationalexpenses(c)18 up to 23In foster careor SIL at age18 and 6months priorto age 18Prior to age21NeedsAssessmentFull timeenrollment inPost-secondary,High School, orGED <strong>Program</strong>(d)Annualrenewal, earnfull time credithours, maintainappropriateprogress$10,704 perfiscal year1,267Education and TrainingVouchers (ETV)(b)Provide funds to studentsattending institutions of highereducation (university,community college, vocationalschool)18 up to 23In foster careor SIL at age18 and 6months prior Prior to ageto age 18 or 21adopted fromfoster care atage 16 or 17Requirementsof Scholarshipor TransitionalSupportTransition PlanAdmission andattendance at postsecondaryinstitutionRequirementsof Scholarshipor TransitionalSupport$5,000 perfiscal year;Prorated if parttime;Not to exceedcost of attendance(b)Total RTI 2,267Sources: Chapter 2004-362, Laws of Florida; DCF Guidelines, HomeSafenet, Integrated <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> Services In<strong>for</strong>mation System.(a) Numbers <strong>for</strong> Pre-<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> and Life Skills represent children in foster care within the respective age group as of February 2005.Numbers <strong>for</strong> all other types of service represent clients receiving services during fiscal year 2003-04. Note: Clients may receive more than one type of service.(b) Additional funding <strong>for</strong> RTI Scholarships and Transitional Support (client count included therein). Presented separately due to unique Federal requirements.(c) Young adults eligible <strong>for</strong> RTI Scholarships are exempt from paying tuition and fees while attending State post-secondary educational institutions, pursuant to Section 1009.25(2)(c), Florida Statutes.(d) Prior to June 24, 2004, the effective date of Chapter 2004-362, Laws of Florida, high school students were required to maintain a 2.0 GPA and GED <strong>Program</strong> participants were required to showsatisfactory progress.Page 8 of 20

Exhibit 2Schedule of Budgeted Expenditures and Projected Surpluses (Deficits)As Provided in District December 2004 Spending PlansFor the 2004-05 Fiscal YearBudget per Service TypeProjected Budget Surplus (Deficit) per Service TypeDistrictPre-<strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> and LifeSkillsOther thanRoom andBoard <strong>for</strong>Aftercare,Transitional,and SILRoom andBoard <strong>for</strong>Aftercare andTransitional(b)ScholarshipsEducationand TrainingVouchersTotalPre-<strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> and LifeSkillsOther thanRoom andBoard <strong>for</strong>Aftercare,Transitional,and SILRoom andBoard <strong>for</strong>Aftercare andTransitional(a)ScholarshipsEducationand TrainingVouchersTotal1 $ 204,575 $ 9,208 $ 22,310 $ 183,507 $ 112,959 $ 532,559 $ - $ (16,139) $ 18,649 $ 21,087 $ (20,699) $ 2,8982 273,097 15,546 36,983 251,464 68,932 646,022 68,513 12,179 (17,935) 69,000 (23,833) 107,9243 252,492 11,762 45,464 300,438 139,159 749,315 (30,888) 1,283 (1,225) 752 36,029 5,9514 476,846 26,033 67,362 458,458 324,867 1,353,566 334,765 12,054 (241,089) 211,557 (13,619) 303,6687 635,612 39,014 92,597 655,262 297,631 1,720,116 (752,066) (91,856) (73,642) (102,503) (529,113) (1,549,180)8 202,890 8,209 20,125 144,596 95,100 470,920 (2,424) 8,209 (32,063) (20,410) (20,408) (67,096)9 297,055 16,215 38,190 267,020 173,603 792,083 84,995 (8,949) (70,562) 105,877 (339,810) (228,449)10 678,480 42,364 96,845 664,296 442,940 1,924,925 484,480 (97,025) 62,362 (660,198) (39,542) (249,923)11 1,254,673 99,222 261,169 1,717,590 614,281 3,946,935 873,162 (103,961) (392,554) (1,201,397) - (824,750)12 177,021 6,568 15,859 142,906 104,224 446,578 - - - (50,458) 7,352 (43,106)13 353,670 13,890 33,809 262,963 166,455 830,787 (197,962) 13,890 25,663 (149,655) 67,285 (240,779)14 185,375 10,224 25,013 177,840 104,674 503,126 (152,615) 10,224 3,605 120,940 99,676 81,83015 143,907 6,156 15,060 117,868 65,439 348,430 (56,137) (7,400) 14,360 54,540 52,732 58,095Suncoast 803,510 35,749 83,581 651,530 523,999 2,098,369 (75,831) (178,486) (462,514) 62,274 294,917 (359,640)Total $ 5,939,203 $ 340,160 $ 854,367 $ 5,995,738 $ 3,234,263 $ 16,363,731 $ 577,992 $ (445,977) $ (1,166,945) $ (1,538,594) $ (429,033) $ (3,002,557)Source: District December 2004 Spending Plans.(a) Room and Board identified separately <strong>for</strong> Federal regulation purposes.Page 9 of 20

Exhibit 3Schedule of Projected Surpluses (Deficits)For the 2004-05 Fiscal YearBased on Actual Expenditures as of December 31, 2004Actual Expenditures as of December 2004Projected Budget Surplus (Deficit) per Service Type (a)DistrictPre-<strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> and LifeSkillsOther thanRoom andBoard <strong>for</strong>Aftercare,Transitional,and SILRoom andBoard <strong>for</strong>Aftercare andTransitional(b)ScholarshipsEducationand TrainingVouchersTotalPre-<strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> and LifeSkillsOther thanRoom andBoard <strong>for</strong>Aftercare,Transitional,and SILRoom andBoard <strong>for</strong>Aftercare andTransitional(b)ScholarshipsEducationand TrainingVouchersTotal1 $ 56,316 $ 7,581 $ 750 $ 41,369 $ 33,397 $ 139,413 $ 91,943 $ (5,954) $ 20,810 $ 100,769 $ 46,165 $ 253,7332 42,562 5,057 36,758 137,075 63,332 284,784 187,973 5,432 (36,533) (22,686) (57,732) 76,4543 128,729 191 750 18,029 34,788 182,487 (4,966) 11,380 43,964 264,380 69,583 384,3414 240,552 6,285 83,123 162,806 138,052 630,818 (4,258) 13,463 (98,884) 132,846 48,763 91,9307 187,251 53,416 31,631 198,413 123,203 593,914 261,110 (67,818) 29,335 258,436 51,225 532,2888 119,163 - 27,561 78,637 59,837 285,198 (35,436) 8,209 (34,997) (12,678) (24,574) (99,476)9 162,738 3,267 89,143 92,773 201,010 548,931 (28,421) 9,681 (140,096) 81,474 (228,417) (305,779)10 182,349 185,493 14,454 767,603 206,864 1,356,763 313,782 (328,622) 67,937 (870,910) 29,212 (788,601)11 120,039 126,183 343,449 1,775,439 135,839 2,500,949 1,014,595 (153,144) (425,729) (1,833,288) 342,603 (1,054,963)12 109,401 1,600 5,704 79,234 29,384 225,323 (41,781) 3,368 4,451 (15,562) 45,456 (4,068)13 290,807 - 1,787 129,783 112,881 535,258 (227,944) 13,890 30,235 3,397 (59,307) (239,729)14 227,253 - 9,111 23,896 4,998 265,258 (269,131) 10,224 6,791 130,048 94,678 (27,390)15 84,997 2,395 700 38,819 6,313 133,224 (26,087) 1,366 13,660 40,230 52,813 81,982Suncoast 529,284 18,878 208,584 236,918 191,184 1,184,848 (255,058) (2,007) (333,587) 177,694 141,631 (271,327)Total 2,481,441 410,346 $ 853,505 $ 3,780,794 $ 1,341,082 $ 8,867,168 $ 976,321 $ (480,532) $ (852,643) $ (1,565,850) $ 552,099 $ (1,370,605)(a) Computed based on actual July 2004 - December 2004 expenditures reported in district's December Spending Plans.(b) Room and Board identified separately <strong>for</strong> Federal regulation purposes.Page 10 of 20

FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119Exhibit 4Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Family Services Districtsand Community-Based Care ProvidersBig Bend Community-Partnership <strong>for</strong> Families, Inc. Based Care, Inc.Partnership <strong>for</strong> Strong Families, Inc.Clay & Baker Kids Net, Inc.12AFamiliesFirst Network2B43Family Matters of Nassau CountyFamily Support Services of North Florida, Inc.St. Johns County Board of County CommissionersSuncoastRegionKids Central, Inc.Safe <strong>Child</strong>ren CoalitionHillsborough Kids, Inc.YMCA <strong>Child</strong>ren, Youth & FamilyServices, Inc.1312714Partners <strong>for</strong> Community-Based CareCommunity-Based Care of Seminole County, Inc.15Community-Based Care of Brevard County, Inc.Family Services of Metro Orlando, Inc.United <strong>for</strong> Families, Inc.Heartland <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong>ren, Inc.Camelot Community Care, Inc.8910<strong>Child</strong> and Family Connections<strong>Child</strong>Net, Inc.11Our Kids of Miami-Dade/Monroe, Inc.CBCs with services contractsCBCs that have signed start-up contractsPage 11 of 20

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FEBRUARY 2005 REPORT NO. 2005 - 119To promote accountability in government and improvement in government operations, the Auditor General makesoperational audits of selected programs, activities, and functions of State agencies. This operational audit was made inaccordance with applicable Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States. Thisaudit was conducted by Mary Stewart, CPA and supervised by Lisa Norman, CPA. Please address inquiries regarding thisreport to Jane Flowers, CPA, Audit Manager, via E-mail at janeflowers@aud.state.fl.us or by telephone at (850) 487-9136.This report and other audit reports prepared by the Auditor General can be obtained on our Web site(http://www.state.fl.us/audgen); by telephone (850 487 9024); or by mail (G74 Claude Pepper Building, 111 West MadisonStreet, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1450).Page 20 of 20

MEMORANDUMDATE: March 30, 2010PHONE: 850-488-5534FAX: 850-488-6975TO:FROM:Gay Frizzell, Family Safety <strong>Program</strong> OfficeSamantha Colbert, Auditor General’s OfficeSUBJECT: <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> – case file requestIn connection with our operational audit of the Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and FamilyServices <strong>for</strong> the period July 1, 2008 through February 28, 2010, we would appreciateyour assistance with providing applicable documentation related to the independentliving program.For the children on the attached list, please provide the following documentation:Pre-<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services1. The pre-independent living assessment2. The annual staffing3. A list of all pre-independent living services received by the child including theservice provider and date of service4. Documentation of the goal setting process5. The date of the referral <strong>for</strong> pre-independent living servicesLife Skills Services1. The independent living assessment2. The biannual staffing3. A list of all life skills services received by the child including the service providerand date of service4. The date of the referral <strong>for</strong> life skills independent living servicesFor the children and young adults on the attached list, please provide the followingdocumentation applicable <strong>for</strong> the service period indicated. The period indicatedcorresponds with the service date of their payments in ICWSIS.Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>1. Documentation that the child has been adjudicated dependentwww.myflorida.com/audgen

2. Documentation that the child had been in the custody of the Department atleast 6 months prior to entering subsidized independent living with a goal ofadoption, long term licensed care or independent living3. Documentation that the child was determined to be able to demonstrateindependent living skills4. Documentation of all required parental notifications5. The written agreement between the child and the CBC6. The child’s case plan7. Documentation of the dates and locations of all contacts made by the servicesworker to the child8. Documentation of all judicial reviews9. Documentation of all staffings held10. The assessment of the living arrangement that was approved by the independentliving coordinator11. Copies of all required background screenings12. Documentation of the counsel and written notification provided by the servicesworker regarding the child’s independent living options13. Documentation of the child’s expenses (budget) that support their subsidyamountAftercare Support Services1. The Aftercare Support Services Cash Assistance Application2. Aftercare services assessment3. A list of all aftercare support services received by the young adult including theservice provider and date of service4. Documentation that the young adult left foster care at age 18Road-to-Independence1. The Road-to-Independence Scholarship and/or ETV Funds Applicationand/or the Road-to-Independence Scholarship and/or ETV Funds RenewalChecklist2. The annual review3. The assessment of the living and educational needs (high school needsassessment or post secondary needs assessment as applicable)4. Documentation that the young adult has either earned a high school diploma orits equivalent, a special certificate, or has reached age 18 years5. Documentation that the young adult was adjudicated dependent6. Documentation that the young adult was living in licensed foster care or insubsidized independent living at the time of their 18 th birthday7. Documentation that the young adult spent at least six months in foster carebe<strong>for</strong>e reaching age 188. Documentation that the young adult is a resident of Florida9. Documentation that one of the following requirements were met 1) the youngadult has earned a standard high school diploma or a special diploma orwww.myflorida.com/audgen

certificate and is admitted <strong>for</strong> full-time enrollment in an eligible postsecondaryeducation institution, 2) the young adult is enrolled full time in an accreditedhigh school, or 3) the young adult is enrolled fulltime in an accredited adulteducation program designed to provide the student with a high school diploma?10. Documentation that the young adult completed the number of hours to beconsidered full time by the educational institution11. Documentation that the young adult met appropriate progress12. For young adults indicated as receiving Chafee or State funds, documentationevidencing why the child was determined to be ineligible <strong>for</strong> ETV fundsTransitional Support Services1. The transition plan2. Documentation evidencing review of the transition plan3. A list of all transitional support services received by the young adult includingthe date of service4. The Transitional Support Eligibility and/or Educational Training VouchersFunds Application5. Documentation that the young adult was adjudicated dependent6. Documentation that the young adult was living in licensed foster care or insubsidized independent living at the time of their 18 th birthday7. Documentation that the young adult spent at least six months in foster carebe<strong>for</strong>e reaching age 188. For young adults indicated as receiving Chafee or State funds, documentationevidencing why the child was determined to be ineligible <strong>for</strong> ETV fundsIn order that we may complete our audit in a timely manner, please provide thisin<strong>for</strong>mation by April 12, 2010. Documentation can be in electronic (scanned) or hardcopy <strong>for</strong>m. If any of the documentation is not available, please indicate so in writingand reference to the elements not available. Due to the confidential nature of thein<strong>for</strong>mation contained in this request, please contact me when the files are available toarrange <strong>for</strong> a secure method to transfer the file documentation. If you need extra timeto complete this request or if you have any questions, please contact me at 487-9103.Thank you <strong>for</strong> your assistance.cc: Jerry Chesnuttwww.myflorida.com/audgen

March 2010 Report No. 10-30DCF Has Improved Some Aspects of <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong><strong>Program</strong> Oversight; Other Long-Standing Problems Remainat a glanceThe Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families hasimproved its fiscal oversight of lead agency<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> expenditures <strong>for</strong> young adultsage 18 and older to help ensure that federalfunds <strong>for</strong> this age group are spent in compliancewith federal law. The department also hasbroadened its contract monitoring and qualityassurance systems to better address keyelements of the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>.However, the department continues to lack aneffective mechanism to track whether 13- to17-year-old youth receive services as directed bylaw.The department also is not routinelymonitoring whether lead agencies meet minimumcontract standards <strong>for</strong> services and has not metstatutory requirements to establish programoutcome measures.Scope ________________In accordance with state law, this progressreport in<strong>for</strong>ms the Legislature of actionstaken by the Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren andFamilies (DCF) in response to a 2007OPPAGA report. 1, 2 This report presents ourassessment of the extent to which the1 Section 11.51(6), F.S.2 Improved Fiscal and Quality Oversight Is Needed <strong>for</strong> the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>, OPPAGA Report No. 07-11,February 2007.Office of <strong>Program</strong> Policy Analysis & Government Accountabilityan office of the Florida Legislaturedepartment has addressed the findings andrecommendations included in our report.Background ____________As provided by s. 409.1451, Florida Statutes,the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> providesservices and financial assistance to preparecurrent and <strong>for</strong>mer foster youth to liveindependently. Long stays in foster care canhamper a youth’s transition to adulthood, asmost young adults learn the skills needed tolive independently while they are growingup with their families.The department contracts with communitybasedcare lead agencies to provide childprotective services, including independentliving services, in the state’s 67 counties. All13- to 17-year-old foster youth and some 18-to 22-year-old <strong>for</strong>mer foster youth are eligible<strong>for</strong> services. The program provides sixcategories of services.• All 13- to 14-year-old foster youth areeligible to receive pre-independent livingservices which include life skills training,educational field trips, and conferences.• All 15- to 17-year-old foster youth areeligible to receive life skills serviceswhich include banking and budgetingskills, educational support, andemployment training.

Progress Report Report No. 10-30• Some 16- and 17-year-old youth whodemonstrate self-sufficiency skills may bechosen to participate in the Subsidized<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> program. Thisprogram allows youth to liveindependently of the daily care andsupervision of an adult.• Road to Independence scholarshipsprovide eligible 18- to 22-year-old youngadults with financial assistance up to$1,256 per month <strong>for</strong> educational andvocational training. 3• Aftercare services provide services toeligible 18- to 22-year-old young adults sothat they can continue to develop theskills and abilities necessary <strong>for</strong>independent living including tutoring,counseling, and skills training.• Transition services provide eligible 18- to22-year-old young adults with short-termservices including financial, housing,counseling, and employment.As shown in Exhibit 1, there were 4,055youth aged 13 to 17 eligible to receive preindependentliving and life skills services asof June 30, 2009. However, as discussed laterin this report, the department and leadagencies lack in<strong>for</strong>mation on the extent towhich youth in this age group receiveservices. Of the young adults age 18 andolder, 4,333 received Road to Independenceprogram, aftercare, and transition services.For Fiscal Year 2009-10, the Legislatureappropriated $35.3 million to the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. This includes$9 million in federal funds from the John H.Chafee Foster Care Independence programand Education and Training Voucher funds,and $26 million in general revenue.Exhibit 1Limited Data Available on 13- to 17-Year-OldYouth; 4,333 Young Adults Received Services inFiscal Year 2008-09<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services <strong>for</strong>13- to 17- Year-Old YouthNumberServedNumberEligiblePre-<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>(ages 13-14) Not Available 1,101Life Skills(ages 15-17) Not Available 2,954Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>(ages 16-17) 246 2,205Total Not Available 4,055 1<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services <strong>for</strong>18- to 22- Year-Old Young AdultsNumberServedNumberEligible 2Road to Independence 3,004 3 5,729Transition 1,722 5,298Aftercare 985 5,735Total 4,333 4 Not Available1The total number of youth eligible is an unduplicated count asof June 30, 2009.2The numbers of <strong>for</strong>mer foster youth age 18 and over eligible <strong>for</strong>each service are estimated based on the number of youth whoaged out of foster care between 2004 and 2009 and the eligibilitycriteria <strong>for</strong> each service. Young adults may be eligible <strong>for</strong> morethan one type of service.3In June 2009, approximately 45% of Road to Independenceprogram recipients received the full stipend award of $1,135 permonth.4The total number of young adults age 18 and over served is anunduplicated count of <strong>for</strong>mer foster youth receivingindependent living services. Some young adults received morethan one type of service during Fiscal Year 2008-09.Source: Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families.At the direction of the Legislature, OPPAGAreviewed the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>in 2007 and concluded that DCF needed toimprove its fiscal oversight to ensure thatprogram resources were used as intendedand in compliance with state and federalguidelines. DCF also lacked the in<strong>for</strong>mationnecessary to ensure lead agencies providedstatutorily mandated services to 13- to17-year-old youth in foster care.3In July 2009, the department increased the maximum monthlypayment from $1,135 to $1,256 due to an increase in the federalminimum wage.2

Report No. 10-30Current Status __________The department has implemented our 2007recommendations to better oversee<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> expenditures<strong>for</strong> young adults age 18 and over and betterensure that state and federal funds <strong>for</strong> thisage group are spent in compliance withfederal law. In addition, the department hasimplemented our recommendations tobroaden the scope of its contract monitoringand quality assurance systems.However, the department continues to lackan effective mechanism to track whether13- to 17-year-old youth receive services. Thedepartment also does not routinely monitorwhether lead agencies meet standards <strong>for</strong>independent living services, and it has notestablished an effective mechanism to holdlead agencies accountable <strong>for</strong> programoutcomes.DCF has improved fiscal oversight of the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> programThe department provided lead agencies withguidance on program budgetaryrequirements and recently began to moreroutinely monitor whether lead agenciesexceed federal spending limits. Thedepartment also created a fiscal monitoringunit to track and analyze lead agencyexpenditures.The department has provided lead agencieswith guidance on state and federal budgetaryrequirements <strong>for</strong> the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong><strong>Program</strong>. Our 2007 report noted that somelead agencies had not used all of theiravailable federal Education and TrainingVoucher funds and had charged eligibleexpenditures to other funding sources, andwe recommended that DCF provide moreguidance to lead agencies on proper use ofprogram funds.Consistent with our recommendation, DCFhas adopted a manual <strong>for</strong> lead agency budgetProgress Reportstaff that provides budgetary guidelines <strong>for</strong>state and federal program funds and serves asa guide <strong>for</strong> coding payments correctly withinthe department’s data system. Lead agencieshave subsequently expended all federalEducation and Training Voucher fundsreceived since Federal Fiscal Year 2006-07 andhave reduced the frequency of codingviolations <strong>for</strong> voucher funds. 4The department has recently implemented aprocess to more routinely monitor federal perclientspending limits <strong>for</strong> Education andTraining Voucher funds. Our prior reportnoted that the department lacked thecapability to determine whether lead agenciesexceeded federal Education and TrainingVoucher fund limits; some data indicated thatmore than half of the lead agencies hadexceeded per-client spending limits. Toensure that funds are spent appropriately, werecommended that the department bettertrack the amount and fund sources leadagencies use <strong>for</strong> payments to young adults.To address this problem, DCF began tomonitor Education and Training Voucherfunds by analyzing Integrated <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong>Services In<strong>for</strong>mation System data on amonthly basis. When DCF staff identifiedproblems, they sent a notice to contractmanagers requesting that the lead agenciesthat had overspent these funds take correctiveactions.However, DCF administrators reported thatthe department did not per<strong>for</strong>m this routineoversight between October 2007 and January2010 due to staffing limitations. During theperiod when this monitoring was not done,lead agencies exceeded limits <strong>for</strong> voucherfund payments <strong>for</strong> 8% of the young adultswho received these funds. Specifically, leadagencies exceeded the $6,250 annual per-4 Coding violations have decreased from 96 in Fiscal Year 2007-08to 36 <strong>for</strong> Fiscal Year 2008-09.3

Progress Report Report No. 10-30young adult federal cap <strong>for</strong> Education andTraining Vouchers <strong>for</strong> 132 of the 1,590 youngadults who received these funds between July2007 and June 2009.The department has established a fiscalmonitoring unit to track and analyze leadagency expenditures. Our prior report notedthat several lead agencies had not spent theirallocation of state and federal independentliving funds <strong>for</strong> Fiscal Year 2005-06. We alsonoted that DCF had not required leadagencies to submit finalized invoices detailingexpenditure in<strong>for</strong>mation prior to receivingcontract payments, and it was unable todetermine how the lead agencies usedgeneral revenue funds.In October 2008, the department created afiscal monitoring unit to determine whetherlead agencies use proper funding sources <strong>for</strong>various child welfare services. 5 Thedepartment now requires lead agencies tosubmit invoices and actual expenditurereports <strong>for</strong> all programs within 20 days of theend of each month. Lead agencies mustreconcile their invoices with data in thedepartment’s Integrated <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong>Services In<strong>for</strong>mation System in order toreceive funding from DCF <strong>for</strong> the nextmonth. 6 The fiscal monitoring unit uses leadagencies’ monthly expenditure reports andprogram per<strong>for</strong>mance indicators to compilequarterly fiscal indicators reports. DCFcircuit administrators review these reportswith the lead agencies and then notify themonitoring units of any problems that needadditional follow-up.DCF has enhanced its quality assuranceand contract monitoringThe department has broadened the scope ofits quality assurance and contract monitoringreviews to better address key elements of the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>.The department has implemented a newquality assurance system. Our prior reportnoted that DCF’s quality assurance data toolsfocused on compliance rather than the qualityof services provided to foster children, anddid not address key elements of the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. In July 2008,the department replaced its compliancefocusedquality assurance system with aRegional Quality Management System. In thenew system, staff conduct quarterly qualityassurance reviews of a sample of case files <strong>for</strong>each lead agency using a statewide core set of70 quality assurance standards. 7 Unlike theprevious system, the new system includesfour standards that assess quality ofindependent living services, includingwhether youth receive needed services anddiscuss their educational goals with their casemanager. DCF and the lead agencies usedthis system to complete reviews <strong>for</strong> eachquarter in Fiscal Year 2008-09 and the secondquarter of Fiscal Year 2009-10. 8DCF has also conducted a series of specialquality assurance program reviews at therequest of an advocacy group. DCFpublished its initial special review inDecember 2009 which focused onmanagement of services <strong>for</strong> 18- to 22-year-old5For more in<strong>for</strong>mation on the fiscal monitoring unit, see DCFImproves Contract Oversight of Lead Agencies; Fiscal, Quality,and Per<strong>for</strong>mance Assessment Are Undergoing Change,OPPAGA Report No. 08-39, June 2008.6Lead agencies receive funding in 12 monthly increments.47Lead agency staff review 25 cases each quarter; the lead agencyreviews 17 and the department and lead agency staff conduct aside-by-side review on the remaining 8 cases. In Fiscal Year2008-09, DCF examined two standards <strong>for</strong> the program, and thedepartment added two additional standards in Fiscal Year2009-10.8The department did not complete a quality assurance review<strong>for</strong> the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2009-10 because it used itsquality assurance staff to assist in the Report on the GabrielMyers Workgroup.

Report No. 10-30Progress Reportyoung adults. 9 DCF will conduct twoadditional reviews that will focus on whether17-year-old youth in out-of-home care areprepared to exit foster care and the quality ofpre-independent living services assessmentsand services provided to 13- to 16-year-oldyouth.The department has broadened the scope of itscontract monitoring reviews. We previouslyreported that the department’s contractmonitoring tools did not examine keyprogram elements and were limited toassessing whether lead agencies accuratelydetermined eligibility <strong>for</strong> Road toIndependence program recipients age 18 andolder. Specifically, the monitoring tools didnot address whether young adults receivingaftercare and transition services met eligibilityrequirements <strong>for</strong> those services or whetherlead agencies complied with federal and staterequirements <strong>for</strong> services provided to 13- to17-year-old youth.In response to our recommendation, thedepartment has broadened the scope of thesereviews to include new assessments of the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. Specifically,the department established six monitoringtools that assess whether lead agenciescomply with statutes and rules whenproviding services, three tools that assessservices <strong>for</strong> 13- to 17-year-old youth, andthree tools that assess lead agency compliancewith requirements <strong>for</strong> young adults over 18.DCF continues to lack in<strong>for</strong>mation aboutthe adequacy and quality of lead agencyindependent living programsDCF’s data system continues to lack accuratein<strong>for</strong>mation on independent living servicesprovided to 13- to 17-year-old youth. DCFdoes not require lead agencies to report on9The report provides six recommendations, including arecommendation <strong>for</strong> the department to establish corerequirements in the lead agencies’ contracts <strong>for</strong> the program’sstructure and service delivery.5these services, and it is not monitoringwhether lead agencies meet minimumcontract standards <strong>for</strong> the services. DCF alsohas not established outcome measures <strong>for</strong> theprogram as required by law.DCF’s data system lacks accurate in<strong>for</strong>mationon the services provided to 13- to 17-year-oldyouth. Florida statutes require the departmentand lead agencies to provide an array ofindependent living services <strong>for</strong> 13- to-17-yearoldfoster youth. Our prior report noted thatDCF could not determine whether fosteryouth were receiving these services due tolimitations in its own and lead agencies’ datasystems. While DCF’s data system couldidentify the number of 13- to 17-year-oldyouth in licensed foster care who were eligible<strong>for</strong> independent living services, the systemcould not track the number of youth whoreceived these services or what services wereprovided.DCF has not sufficiently addressed thisproblem. Although DCF added data fields toits case management system in August 2009 toenable lead agencies to enter data onindependent living services provided to eachfoster youth, it has not required lead agenciesto use these data fields. In practice, leadagencies typically do not enter data on youththat could be used to determine the numberserved and the types of services they receive.As a result, in February 2010, the department’sdata system only contained in<strong>for</strong>mation on25% of the 13- to 17-year-old youth in licensedfoster care who were eligible <strong>for</strong> independentliving services.Research shows that teaching independentliving skills to foster youth at an early age canlead to more effective results over time.Accordingly, it is important <strong>for</strong> DCF to collectreliable in<strong>for</strong>mation on whether lead agenciesare addressing the needs of eligible 13- to17-year-old foster youth. 1010A November 2009 interim report by the Florida Senate’s

Progress Report Report No. 10-30DCF has not established an effectivemechanism to ensure that lead agencies meetminimum contract standards <strong>for</strong> independentliving services. The 2006 Legislature requiredDCF via proviso language to incorporateminimum independent living standards intolead agency contracts by July 1, 2007, asrecommended in a 2004 OPPAGA report. 11Further, the Legislature directed the agencyto begin monitoring lead agencyper<strong>for</strong>mance in accordance with theserequirements by Fiscal Year 2008-09. Thesestandards cover a comprehensive array ofservices including life skills, housing,education, and employment. The standardsare intended to better ensure that foster youthreceive the services they need to become selfsufficient and that services are consistentlydelivered throughout the state. However our2007 report noted that the DCF had madelittle progress in developing these standards.DCF has incorporated minimum standardsinto lead agency contracts. However, it doesnot routinely assess whether lead agencyservices meet the standards. Thedepartment’s December 2009 special qualityassurance review of the program concludedthat DCF needed to more frequentlyscrutinize the level and quality of programservices. The report also found widevariations in lead agencies’ processes <strong>for</strong>providing services to youth and young adultsand recommended that DCF set contractrequirements <strong>for</strong> program service delivery.Committee on <strong>Child</strong>ren, Families, and Elder Affairs found thatalthough attention to the needs of 13- to 17-year-old youth hasincreased significantly over the past decade, the servicesintended to help prepare them to live independently uponaging out of the system appear to remain limited andfragmented. The report found that concerns continue to beraised as to whether all eligible youth are being served, andwhether the direction and oversight of community-based carelead agencies and providers are sufficient to ensure that thegoals of the program are being met.11<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Minimum Standards Recommended <strong>for</strong><strong>Child</strong>ren in Foster Care, OPPAGA Report No. 04-78, November2004.6DCF has collected in<strong>for</strong>mation on programservices, but has not established programoutcome measures as required by law.The2002 Legislature required DCF to developoutcome measures <strong>for</strong> independent livingservices. 12 Our prior report noted that thedepartment had not finalized such measures,although it was working with theDepartment of Education to obtain datarelated to youth with a high school diplomaor GED and young adults enrolled inpostsecondary education.The department still has not establishedsuch measures, although it is collectingin<strong>for</strong>mation on the independent livingservices received by foster youth. While DCFcontracts require lead agencies to meetcontractually specified per<strong>for</strong>mance outcomes<strong>for</strong> other child welfare services, it has not yetestablished contractual outcome standards <strong>for</strong>the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. Suchstandards could cover critical program goalssuch as the percentage of youth served whograduate from high school. DCF managersreport that it has <strong>for</strong>med a workgroup thatincludes department and lead agency staffthat is developing outcome measures <strong>for</strong> theindependent living program. DCF plans toincorporate outcome measures related to the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> into leadagency contracts effective July 1, 2010.The department and lead agencies conductan annual survey of youth, young adults,and case workers that could be used to trackper<strong>for</strong>mance towards some key independentliving goals. These surveys include questionson housing arrangements, educational goals,and employment status <strong>for</strong> youth. Beginningin October 2010, the department will alsoparticipate in a federally required survey togather in<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>for</strong> the National Youth inTransition Database; this ef<strong>for</strong>t will collectin<strong>for</strong>mation on youth who are in or who haveaged out of foster care and the services they12Chapter 2002-19, Laws of Florida.

Report No. 10-30Progress Reportreceive. The department must beginreporting this data in May 2011. Thedepartment should use these data as well asdata from external sources such as the Agency<strong>for</strong> Work<strong>for</strong>ce Innovation’s employmentin<strong>for</strong>mation to develop an effectivemechanism to assess the extent to which the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> is meeting itsstatutory goals to prepare foster youth <strong>for</strong>productive adult lives.7

The Florida LegislatureOffice of <strong>Program</strong> Policy Analysisand Government AccountabilityOPPAGA provides per<strong>for</strong>mance and accountability in<strong>for</strong>mation about Floridagovernment in several ways.• Reports deliver program evaluation, policy analysis, and Sunsetreviews of state programs to assist the Legislature in overseeing governmentoperations, developing policy choices, and making Florida government better,faster, and cheaper.• PolicyCasts, short narrated slide presentations, provide bottom-line briefings offindings and recommendations <strong>for</strong> select reports.• Government <strong>Program</strong> Summaries (GPS), an online encyclopedia,www.oppaga.state.fl.us/government, provides descriptive, evaluative, andper<strong>for</strong>mance in<strong>for</strong>mation on more than 200 Florida state government programs.• The Florida Monitor Weekly, an electronic newsletter, delivers brief announcementsof research reports, conferences, and other resources of interest <strong>for</strong> <strong>Florida's</strong> policyresearch and program evaluation community.• Visit OPPAGA’s website at www.oppaga.state.fl.usOPPAGA supports the Florida Legislature by providing evaluative research and objective analyses to promote governmentaccountability and the efficient and effective use of public resources. This project was conducted in accordance with applicableevaluation standards. Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible <strong>for</strong>mat may be obtained by telephone (850/488-0021), byFAX (850/487-3804), in person, or by mail (OPPAGA Report Production, Claude Pepper Building, Room 312, 111 W. Madison St.,Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475). Cover photo by Mark Foley.OPPAGA website: www.oppaga.state.fl.usProject supervised by Nancy Dufoe (850 487-9242)Project conducted by Ricky HarrisonBecky Vickers, Staff Director Health and Human ServicesGary R. VanLandingham, Ph.D., OPPAGA Director8

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<strong>Independent</strong>Chapter 06<strong>Living</strong> SpendingPlans

PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF SERVICES TO YOUNG ADULTS FORMERLY IN FOSTER CARE<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> (ILP) Spending Plan - INSTRUCTIONSState Fiscal Year 2010 / 2011Section 409.1451(5), F.S., requires each community based care leady agency under contract with the Department of <strong>Child</strong>renand Families providing independent living services to develop a plan <strong>for</strong> the implementation of these services. The lawspecifies the elements of the plan and those elements are included in the attached template.This plan is to be completed and submitted to the Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families (DCF), Office of Family Safety byJuly 31, 2010. All plans will be reviewed by the Review Team and recommendations will be made to the Director of FamilySafety. All notifications of approval or disapproval will be given by August 31, 2010. If the plan is disapproved, thecommunity based-care lead agency is to make any necessary changes, and re-submit back to DCF, Office of Family Safety.SECTION I - IL Spending Plan - Rollup Insert Lead Agency's name in the blue shaded row ( this will populate in all worksheets).Funding - CBC Lead Agency Allocation: funding provided in the contract from the Department.Enter the amount from each section that will be made available <strong>for</strong> the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> Section A and B of Attachment II-B available funding <strong>for</strong> core services that can be used <strong>for</strong> independent living services. Section C of Attachment II-B available funding <strong>for</strong> independent living services. State Funds Carry Forward available funding of prior year unexpended state funds that can be used <strong>for</strong> non-recurringindependent living services (i.e. Aftercare Support Services, Transitional Support Services, RTI Recipients that are 22 years old).ExpendituresAmounts <strong>for</strong> expenditures will be automatically transferred from each different worksheet within the spreadsheet (worksheets are linked) .<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>: Available Funds less ExpendituresSubtotal of the amount available once expenditures are deducted from the available funding <strong>for</strong> independent living services.Please Note: This amount must equal $0. Available funding and expenditures will be adjusted until this amount is $0.SECTION II - IL Spending Plan - Client CountClient Count of Road To Independence, Transitional Support Services, Aftercare Support Services, and Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services.List the number of young adults who will reach 18 years of age who will be eligible <strong>for</strong> each service (16 years of age <strong>for</strong>Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>) and the number of young adults who will reach 23 years of age who will be ineligible <strong>for</strong> thei (18 f f S b idi d I d d t Li i ) d/ h th i li ibl d/ i li ibl d i h thIL Spending Plan-Instructions Instructions Page 1 of 4

PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF SERVICES TO YOUNG ADULTS FORMERLY IN FOSTER CARE<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> (ILP) Spending Plan - INSTRUCTIONSState Fiscal Year 2010 / 2011service (18 years of age <strong>for</strong> Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>) and/or who are otherwise eligible and/or ineligible during each monthof the fiscal year. Please note: These numbers reflect the total of young adults served by the Lead Agency and any subcontractor<strong>for</strong> the Lead Agency.IL Spending Plan-Instructions Instructions Page 2 of 4

PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF SERVICES TO YOUNG ADULTS FORMERLY IN FOSTER CARE<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> (ILP) Spending Plan - INSTRUCTIONSState Fiscal Year 2010 / 2011SECTION III - IL Spending Plan - Administrative and SupportIL Case Management and Support - Salaries & BenefitsEnter the staffing requirements to administer the services and program. Position Title list each position title used to administer independent living services within the Lead Agency. Percent (%) of time indicate staff's percent of time used to administer independent living services within the Lead Agency. Annual Amount of Salaries & Benefits enter total amount of staff's salaries & benefits. Annual Amount charged to ILP pre<strong>for</strong>mulated, amount will automatically be generated.Expenses affiliated with IL Case Management SupportEnter the amount of administrative expenditures charged on behalf of the staff who administer independent living services.Life Skill Services / TrainingEnter the amount of pre-independent living services, life skills services, and other services' expenditures <strong>for</strong> clients per<strong>for</strong>med by the Lead Agency. 13 - 17 Year Olds enter amount <strong>for</strong> this age group projected to receive life skill services and training within the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. 18 - 19 Year Olds enter amount <strong>for</strong> this age group projected to receive life skill services and training within the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. 20 - 22 Year Olds enter amount <strong>for</strong> this age group projected to receive life skill services and training within the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. Unable to break out by age enter amount <strong>for</strong> projected life skill services and training within the ILP which cannot be broken out by age.OtherEnter the amount of other type of expenditures which do not fall under "Expenses affiliated with IL Case Management Support" or "Life Skill Services/ Training". Expense Type list the description and enter the amount of the each expense type.SECTION IV - IL Spending Plan - Lead AgencyServices Provided through an Approved PlanIndicate whether a plan has been approved by the Department or will be submitted <strong>for</strong> approval/disapproval to the Department <strong>for</strong> identifiedservices, and enter the amount <strong>for</strong> each specified service. Housing list the description and enter the amount <strong>for</strong> this service. Transportation list the description and enter the amount <strong>for</strong> this service. Employment list the description and enter the amount <strong>for</strong> this service. Other list the description and enter the amount <strong>for</strong> this service.IL Spending Plan-Instructions Instructions Page 3 of 4

PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF SERVICES TO YOUNG ADULTS FORMERLY IN FOSTER CARE<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> (ILP) Spending Plan - INSTRUCTIONSState Fiscal Year 2010 / 2011Direct Payment to ClientsEnter the projected client count and an average amount <strong>for</strong> Road To Independence, Transitional Support Services, Aftercare Support Services, andSubsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services. *Please Note: This will be the total number of direct payments, by service, <strong>for</strong> the year. Projected Client Count enter the total projected number of clients that will be directly served by the Lead Agency. Previous SFY's Average Payment Amount per Service enter the average amount of the previous state fiscal year's payment that was paid. Projected Annual Amount of Payments per Service pre<strong>for</strong>mulated, amount will automatically be generated.SECTION V - Sub-Contractor 1, Sub-Contractor 2, Sub-Contractor 3IL Case Management and Support - Salaries & BenefitsEnter the staffing requirements to administer the services and program. Position Title list each position title used to administer independent living services <strong>for</strong> the sub-contractor. Percent (%) of time indicate staff's percent of time used to administer independent living services <strong>for</strong> the sub-contractor. Annual Amount of Salaries & Benefits enter total amount of staff's salaries & benefits. Annual Amount charged to ILP pre<strong>for</strong>mulated, amount will automatically be generated.Expenses affiliated with IL Case Management SupportEnter the amount of administrative expenditures charged on behalf of the staff who administer independent living services.Life Skill Services / TrainingEnter the amount of pre-independent living services, life skills services, and other services' expenditures <strong>for</strong> clients per<strong>for</strong>med by the sub-contractor. 13 - 17 Year Olds enter amount <strong>for</strong> this age group projected to receive life skill services and training within the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. 18 - 19 Year Olds enter amount <strong>for</strong> this age group projected to receive life skill services and training within the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. 20 - 22 Year Olds enter amount <strong>for</strong> this age group projected to receive life skill services and training within the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong>. Unable to break out by age enter amount <strong>for</strong> projected life skill services and training within the ILP which cannot be broken out by age.Direct Payment to ClientsEnter the projected client count and an average amount <strong>for</strong> Road To Independence, Transitional Support Services, Aftercare Support Services, andSubsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services. Projected Client Count enter the total projected number of clients that will be directly served by the sub-contractor. Previous SFY's Average Payment Amount per Service enter the average amount of the previous state fiscal year's payment that was paid. Projected Annual Amount of Payments per Service pre<strong>for</strong>mulated, amount will automatically be generated.IL Spending Plan-Instructions Instructions Page 4 of 4

PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF SERVICES TO YOUNG ADULTS FORMERLY IN FOSTER CARE<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> (ILP) Spending Plan - INSTRUCTIONSState Fiscal Year 2010 / 2011SECTION VI - Past Three (3) - State Fiscal Year Client Count (Inclusive of Lead Agency and Sub-Contractors' Clients)Client Count of Road To Independence, Transitional Support Services, Aftercare Support Services, and Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services.List the number of young adults who received direct payments <strong>for</strong> each service, with the beginning number <strong>for</strong> July 1 of each state fiscalyear (Those recipients that would be carried over from the end of the past state fiscal year). Add the number of new recipients <strong>for</strong> eachservice of that state fiscal year; in addition, add the number of the recipients that are not new to ILP, but are new <strong>for</strong> that state fiscal year.Subtract the number of recipients <strong>for</strong> each service that have reached age 23 (18 years of age <strong>for</strong> Subsidized <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>), as well assubtract the number of recipients that have ended/terminated (other than reaching age 23) from each service during the state fiscal year.This will equal the number of recipients that are receiving direct payments <strong>for</strong> each service in June <strong>for</strong> that state fiscal year. *This amountwill then populate the "Number of Recipients at July 1" of the next state fiscal year. In addition: Please indicated how many (unduplicated)recipients received one or more direct payment <strong>for</strong> each service during the state fiscal year.Please note: These numbers reflect the total of young adults served by the Lead Agency and any sub-contractor <strong>for</strong> the Lead Agency.SECTION VII - CertificationIndicate a contact person and their phone number, and have a responsible official certify this plan is a projection of costs toadminister the services of the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> <strong>Program</strong> based on material fact at the time the plan was completed.IL Spending Plan-Instructions Instructions Page 5 of 4

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<strong>Independent</strong>Chapter 07<strong>Living</strong> ServicesAdvisory Council

2009 INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICESADVISORY COUNCIL REPORTDepartment of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families ResponseDecember 31, 2009George H. SheldonSecretaryCharlie CristGovernor

2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Advisory Council ReportDepartment of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families ResponseFlorida Statutes establishes the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services AdvisoryCouncil, and mandates the issuance of an annual report from the Council,as well as a response from the Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families.Statutory Authority:409.1451(7) INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES ADVISORY COUNCIL.--The Secretaryof <strong>Child</strong>ren and Family Services shall establish the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> ServicesAdvisory Council <strong>for</strong> the purpose of reviewing and making recommendationsconcerning the implementation and operation of the independent living transitionservices. This advisory council shall continue to function as specified in thissubsection until the Legislature determines that the advisory council can nolonger provide a valuable contribution to the department's ef<strong>for</strong>ts to achieve thegoals of the independent living transition services.(a) Specifically, the advisory council shall assess the implementation andoperation of the system of independent living transition services and advise thedepartment on actions that would improve the ability of the independent livingtransition services to meet the established goals. The advisory council shall keepthe department in<strong>for</strong>med of problems being experienced with the services,barriers to the effective and efficient integration of services and support acrosssystems, and successes that the system of independent living transition serviceshas achieved. The department shall consider, but is not required to implement,the recommendations of the advisory council.(b) The advisory council shall report to the appropriate substantive committeesof the Senate and the House of Representatives on the status of theimplementation of the system of independent living transition services; ef<strong>for</strong>ts topublicize the availability of aftercare support services, the Road-to-Independence<strong>Program</strong>, and transitional support services; the success of the services; problemsidentified; recommendations <strong>for</strong> department or legislative action; and thedepartment's implementation of the recommendations contained in the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Integration Workgroup Report submitted to theSenate and the House substantive committees December 31, 2002. Thisadvisory council report shall be submitted by December 31 of each yearthat the council is in existence and shall be accompanied by a report fromthe department which identifies the recommendations of the advisorycouncil and either describes the department's actions to implement theserecommendations or provides the department's rationale <strong>for</strong> notimplementing the recommendations.Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 20092

(c) Members of the advisory council shall be appointed by the secretary of thedepartment. The membership of the advisory council must include, at aminimum, representatives from the headquarters and district offices of theDepartment of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Family Services, Community-Based Care leadagencies, the Agency <strong>for</strong> Work<strong>for</strong>ce Innovation, the Department of Education, theAgency <strong>for</strong> Health Care Administration, the State Youth Advisory Board,Work<strong>for</strong>ce Florida, Inc., the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office, foster parents,recipients of Road-to-Independence <strong>Program</strong> funding, and advocates <strong>for</strong> fosterchildren. The secretary shall determine the length of the term to be served byeach member appointed to the advisory council, which may not exceed 4 years.(d) The Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Family Services shall provide administrativesupport to the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council to accomplish itsassigned tasks. The advisory council shall be af<strong>for</strong>ded access to all appropriatedata from the department, each Community-Based Care lead agency, and otherrelevant agencies in order to accomplish the tasks set <strong>for</strong>th in this section. Thedata collected may not include any in<strong>for</strong>mation that would identify a specific childor young adult.(e) The advisory council report required under paragraph (b) to be submitted tothe substantive committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives byDecember 31, 2008, shall include an analysis of the system of independent livingtransition services <strong>for</strong> young adults who attain 18 years of age while in fostercare prior to completing high school or its equivalent and recommendations <strong>for</strong>department or legislative action. The council shall assess and report on the mosteffective method of assisting these young adults to complete high school or itsequivalent by examining the practices of other states.Recommendations by the Council <strong>for</strong> the Florida LegislatureSupport the Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families legislative budgetrequest. The legislature should insure at least the minimum match tomaximize federal funding and not to endanger the Federal Title IV-E Waiverstatus.Department Response: The Department appreciates the support of the<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council.Actively participate and consider legislation to support therecommendations of the Road to Independence Redesign Workgroup andthe voluntary provisions of Fostering Connections.Department Response: The Department supports strengthening laws toensure youth have access to services to help them transition to adulthoodand to improve outcomes relating to education, employment, and supportsystem.Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 20093

Recommendations by the Council <strong>for</strong> the Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren andFamiliesActively participate and consider legislation to support therecommendations of the Road to Independence Redesign Workgroup andthe voluntary provisions of Fostering Connections.Department Response: The Department supports the work of theRedesign Workgroup, as well as strengthening laws to ensure youth haveaccess to services to help them transition to adulthood and to improveoutcomes relating to education, employment, and support system.EducationNew RecommendationsFostering Connections: Ensure that all educational requirements of thisAct within its own control are implemented both in policy andoperationally. DCF should revise appropriate rules in the FloridaAdministrative Code to reflect these educational requirements. Further,DCF should ensure that all local educational agreements include actions bythe schools and other signatory agencies to comply with this Act.Department Response: The Department concurs with thisrecommendation. The Department will consider and address theserecommendations in the Department’s rulemaking process.In the interim, the Department is working at both the state and the locallevels to ensure that the letter and spirit of the statewide InteragencyAgreement on Education, signed by the parties on July 30, 2009, are fullyimplemented.There is a statewide implementation team that meets twice monthly, aswell as local teams that meet twice monthly. The State team, headed bythe Department and Department of Education, will begin providing regulartechnical assistance calls to all local team members in early January.Definitional Need: To promote school stability, it is recommended that DCFdevelop a definition of “children awaiting foster care placement” pursuantto the McKinney-Vento Act provisions <strong>for</strong> the education of homelesschildren and obtain approval of this definition from the DOE.Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 20094

Department Response: The Department concurs with thisrecommendation. The Department will continue to work with theDepartment of Education in its ef<strong>for</strong>ts to develop this definition.School District and DOE Collaboration: The following tworecommendations are proposed to facilitate DOE/DCF collaboration and toenable school districts to meet the unique educational needs of childrenserved by the Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families.(1) Each school district should review the best practices of thosedistricts which provide guidance counselors or dependency courtliaisons (or both) whose focus is specifically and solely on studentsknown to DCF. Each school district should seek funding from allsources within the school system, and/or from non-profit organizations,to hire designated guidance counselors or court liaisons to providefocused and detailed assistance to the individual DCF students therebyassisting them to navigate the educational system in light of theirunique needs.(2) A workgroup or committee comprised of DCF and DOE staffmembers responsible <strong>for</strong> addressing the various educational issuesfaced by youth in foster should be convened on a monthly basis. Thisworkgroup or committee would be charged with developing strategies<strong>for</strong> overcoming the barriers hindering the educational progress faced bychildren known to DCF, and would facilitate their movement frominstitution to institution and from one level of education to the next. It isenvisioned that such a workgroup or committee would serve in anadvisory capacity to the statewide interagency implementation team andwould, on an as needed basis, work with DJJ, APD and AWI.Department Response: The Department concurs with theserecommendations. The Department encourages the Department ofEducation to support these recommendations as well.Educational Planning: The requirements, tools and resources of DOE’sePEP and career planning must be integrated into the educational plansrequired <strong>for</strong> youth in foster care. By working with the local school districts,CBC lead agencies can, and must, facilitate the integration of coordinatededucational plans <strong>for</strong> all youth in care.School districts and the Department’s contract agencies should implementpolicies to identify children in the care of the Department, and to notifyschool districts when a child is no longer in care.Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 20095

At a minimum, all school districts should ensure that they will share schoolrecords with the Department through a court order or parental consent, andthat any release or court order submitted by the Department’s orCommunity-Based Care case workers is noted in all the student’s writtenand electronic files, so that such document will remain effective untilfurther action by the parent or the court, or the student is no longer in care.DCF should continue to work with DOE toward a more liberal interpretationof FERPA to meet the goals of the Interagency Agreement byacknowledging that a child’s case worker falls within the federal and statedefinition of “parent” as “any person exercising supervisory authority overa student in place of a parent”, pursuant to sec. 1000.21(5), F.S.Department Response: The Department concurs with theserecommendations and encourages educational partners to support theserecommendations as well. The Department will continue to work with theDepartment of Education to establish statewide in<strong>for</strong>mation sharingpractices.The Department also encourages community-based care partners to workwith the local school districts to establish more <strong>for</strong>malized notificationprocesses and in<strong>for</strong>mation sharing practices. Ef<strong>for</strong>ts such as sharing theePEP will not only reduce duplication of agency ef<strong>for</strong>ts but enable theintegration of services to support positive youth educational and well-beingoutcomes.Post-Secondary Education: DOE should identify those existing programsthat are designed to facilitate the success of students known to DCF asthey make the transitions from middle to high school and from high schoolto college or technical school, and seek to promote replication of suchprograms and techniques throughout the state.Department Response: The Department concurs with thisrecommendation. The Department encourages the Department ofEducation to support this recommendation as well.DOE and DCF should ensure that in<strong>for</strong>mation concerning changes to theproof of Florida residency <strong>for</strong> post-secondary education, and to the on-lineapplication <strong>for</strong> those students who are exempt from paying tuition and feesis disseminated to all high school advisors, post-secondary educationalinstitutions, DCF caseworkers, and independent living coordinators.Department Response: The Department concurs with thisrecommendation. The Department will work with community-based carepartners to ensure proper dissemination of this in<strong>for</strong>mation. TheDepartment encourages the Department of Education to support thisDepartment of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 20096

ecommendation by providing the high school advisors and postsecondaryeducational institutions this in<strong>for</strong>mation as well.Data Collection: It is also recommended that DOE and DCF collaborate indeveloping a more comprehensive system <strong>for</strong> measuring the educationalprogress and the education outcomes of youth in foster care.Department Response: The Department concurs with thisrecommendation. New Florida Safe Families Network (FSFN) builds allowthe Department to electronically capture educational in<strong>for</strong>mation onchildren and youth served by the Department. Additionally, theDepartment will be implementing the federally required National Youth inTransition Database (NYTD) survey by October 2010. This survey willcapture outcome in<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>for</strong> youth and young adults served by theDepartment. The Department looks <strong>for</strong>ward to collaborating with theDepartment of Education in the reciprocal sharing of in<strong>for</strong>mation to ensurepositive educational outcomes <strong>for</strong> Florida’s youth.Health Care RecommendationsRequire that DCF and AHCA establish a system to check Medicaideligibility of children on a daily or at least weekly basis to assure continuityof care and prevent inappropriate disenrollment or changes in physical orbehavioral health plans.<strong>Child</strong>ren and youth who have been abused, neglected or abandonedshould be presumptively identified as being in crisis and should receiveimmediate services <strong>for</strong> physical, behavioral or development disabilityassessment and services.DCF, APD, and the CBCs need to develop and implement specificprocedures to transitioning youth who have developmental disabilities andare aging out of foster care in order to receive timely services through APDor the Early Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment provisions of theMedicaid program.Department Response: Interagency and intra-agency coordination hasbeen established as a top priority <strong>for</strong> the Department. The Departmentwill continue to work with the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), theAgency <strong>for</strong> Persons with Disabilities (APD), the Agency <strong>for</strong> Health CareAdministration (AHCA), and the Department of Health (DOH) to improvestrategies to enhance services <strong>for</strong> children served by multiple agencies.The Department continues to coordinate between the Family Safety andACCESS <strong>Program</strong> Offices to ensure adherence to proper procedures andprotocols that allows <strong>for</strong> the automatic continuation of Medicaid services<strong>for</strong> youth exiting foster care.Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 20097

Establish a single medical health care plan <strong>for</strong> the entire state child welfarepopulation similar to the behavioral health plan or in combination with thebehavior health plan.Department Response: As a result of the federal Fostering ConnectionsAct, the Department established a cross-agency and multi-disciplinaryworkgroup to develop a state plan on health care <strong>for</strong> children in fostercare. The workgroup has been meeting since February 2008 and animplementation committee has worked extensively on the development ofa medical home <strong>for</strong> foster children through the Division of <strong>Child</strong>ren’sMedical Services. A medical home is defined as continual andcomprehensive care that is managed and coordinated by a primary healthcare provider. Primary care is defined as comprehensive, first-contact,acute, chronic, and preventive care across the life span, delivered by ateam of individuals lead by the patient’s personal health care provider.The attributes of a medical home include:‣ Accessible care (nearby and timely);‣ Available 24 hours a day through a means that allows <strong>for</strong> therendering of clinical decision – and where the emergency room is notroutinely used <strong>for</strong> regular care‣ Ability to maintain primary health care provider without disruptionsdue to administrative procedures such as changes in assignment orbreaks in eligibility‣ Coordinated, including referral and scheduling of appointments thatconsider constraints of the family and are based on a treatment plan;the maintenance of all health in<strong>for</strong>mation on the child and ability totransfer such in<strong>for</strong>mation without difficulty. The use of a singlecomprehensive medical record, including a treatment plan is critical tothe overall management of the child’s care and reduction of patienterrors.‣ Comprehensive – preventive care, including health education andmanagement of chronic illnesses either by the primary health careprovider or in coordination with specialists and other health providers.‣ Family-centered and culturally competent – This is a partnershipbetween the medical home and the family and recognizes the culturethe family comes from and lives in. The care is tailored to meet theneeds and preferences of the families within the context of quality care.Three pilot sites have been chosen <strong>for</strong> this project. Each site has beenworking to develop a medical home <strong>for</strong> foster children and is well into theprocess. <strong>Child</strong>ren’s Medical Services (CMS) has been working with thesesites already and local CMS staff and DCF/CBC staff are working incoordination on the issue. The three sites are Ft. Myers, NortheastRegion, and Sarasota.Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 20098

Require the Medicaid Re<strong>for</strong>m counties that are not participating in thestatewide behavioral health plan to join.Department Response: The Department recommends that this bereferred to the Agency <strong>for</strong> Healthcare Administration <strong>for</strong> further study.The recent Gabriel Myers report has identified the need <strong>for</strong> compliance withthe framework and safeguards that exist in statute, administrative rule andoperating procedures <strong>for</strong> psychotropic drugs. For the youth and youngadults in foster care, the issue of consent, communication and in<strong>for</strong>mationas part of a comprehensive treatment plan is essential.Department Response: The Department is promulgating anadministrative rule specific to psychotropic medications, proposed Chapter65C-35, Florida Administrative Code. A public hearing has been held andthe rule will be adopted by March 2010. Although children cannot consentto treatment, the rule includes a provision <strong>for</strong> children who are age anddevelopmentally appropriate to be included in the decision process. If achild does not assent to treatment, the rule requires that <strong>Child</strong>ren's LegalServices request an attorney be appointed to represent the child.Cross Over Youth RecommendationsThe ILSAC recommends that DCF and DJJ act aggressively on therecommendations resulting from QA Reviews <strong>for</strong> youth served by morethan one agency.Department Response: The Department concurs with thisrecommendation. During the fourth quarter of FY 08/09, the Departmentinitiated a Special <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Quality Assurance Review. As partof that special review, the Office of Family Safety teamed with DJJ staff tofacilitate focus group discussions with <strong>for</strong>mer foster care youth, some ofwhom were also being served by DJJ. Participants included <strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> staff from CBC lead agencies, Contracted Case ManagementOrganizations, Community Support Organizations, Educational Liaisons,youth advocates, DCF staff and DJJ staff. These discussions were held ineach region during June 2009. Participants shared successful programsand practices and discussed barriers to implementation of <strong>Independent</strong><strong>Living</strong> services <strong>for</strong> young adults <strong>for</strong>merly in foster care with the intent thatlocal and statewide improvements be made. Feedback from the focusgroup discussions is documented and posted on the Quality AssuranceWeb Site on the Florida <strong>Center</strong> <strong>for</strong> the Advancement of <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong>.The Office of Family Safety will track practice issues through dataDepartment of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 20099

analyses and ongoing monthly conference calls and meetings with fieldstaff.In January through March 2010, the Department and Community BasedCare providers will complete a review of foster youth who have reachedtheir 17th birthday to assess casework geared toward readying them <strong>for</strong>adulthood. Some DJJ crossover youth are in the sample. One of theitems in the review tool asks if DJJ and the child welfare provider workedtogether to develop an independent living plan. Once the review iscompleted, the Department will have some actuarial data from which toidentify areas in need of improvement and, again track practice issuesthrough ongoing monthly conference calls and meetings. This review alsorequires youth interviews; there<strong>for</strong>e, additional in<strong>for</strong>mation will be gatheredthrough that process.The Department is currently working with Community Based Careproviders and DJJ to develop the protocol <strong>for</strong> an upcoming special reviewof crossover youth that involve youth in foster care who are committed to aDJJ residential facility. The objective is to assess processes related totransition planning, i.e., joint ef<strong>for</strong>ts between the service provider and DJJto plan <strong>for</strong> the youth's release from the facility and back into anappropriate community/home setting. Once this special review iscompleted, both Departments will have a better understanding of effective(and not effective) processes so that improvements can be made. It isanticipated that this practice will also be tracked in a way to ensure bothagencies plan more timely and effectively, thereby avoiding crisis modeplacements.National Youth in Transition DatabaseThe ILSAC recommends that Florida adopt the NYTD Plus model andcollect data on 100% of the youth who are and have been served throughthe Florida foster care system.Department Response: The Department concurs with thisrecommendation. Currently, the Department conducts an annual survey<strong>for</strong> foster youth and young adults <strong>for</strong>merly in licensed foster care. Thissurvey, known as the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Transitional Services CriticalChecklist, was developed and implemented as a collaborative ef<strong>for</strong>tbetween the Department, ILSAC, Florida Coalition <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong>ren andcommunity-based care partners. This survey tool captures data elementsspecific to independent living services.The Department is working with the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services AdvisoryCouncil (ILSAC) and its National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD)Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 200910

Subgroup to ensure Florida’s compliance with the federal services andoutcome data requirements established in the 1999 John H. ChafeeFoster Care Independence Act. This will require the Department’senhancement of the current survey process through the development orpurchase of a web-based youth survey tool and modification of FloridaSafe Families Network. Upon completion of this project, Florida will begincapturing the additional surveys and data on the federally requiredpopulations no later than October 1, 2010. The Department will work withthe ILSAC and NYTD Subgroup to create and implement a transition planthat will also ensure surveys and data to be collected on all youth who areor have been served through the Florida foster care system.PermanencyRecommend that the full range of permanency options be considered:reunification, adoption, guardianship, kinship care, and other nontraditionalpermanency options and a priority <strong>for</strong> every youth in care. Noone should leave the system without a permanent family.We would also repeat our 2008 suggestion concerning youth involvementin permanency planning and in building supportive adult relationships.Department Response: The Department concurs with thisrecommendation. As a result of the 2008 federal <strong>Child</strong> and FamilyServices Review (CFSR), the Department incorporated into its QualityImprovement Plan nine action steps <strong>for</strong> improving the appropriateness ofpermanency planning goals. Additionally, the Department is initiating a 12-month permanency project to ensure youth with Another PlannedPermanent <strong>Living</strong> Arrangement (APPLA) goal are appropriately andcontinuously engaged in working towards the most appropriatepermanency option. The project is scheduled to kick-off in January 2010.Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families – Office of Family SafetyResponse to 2009 <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory Council ReportDecember 31, 200911

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<strong>Independent</strong>Chapter 08<strong>Living</strong> Redesign

Redesign of Services to Young Adults Formerly in Foster CarePurposeThe purpose of this document is to provide a brief summary of therecommendations proposed by the members of the workgroup convened toredesign the framework of services <strong>for</strong> young adults <strong>for</strong>merly in foster care. Theworkgroup was comprised of members of the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> ServicesAdvisory Council, representatives of the Florida Coalition <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong>ren, theDepartment of <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families and key stakeholders. More in<strong>for</strong>mation isavailable at: http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/indliving/AdvisoryCouncil/index.shtmlAssumptions and Guiding Principles Change is needed in the current statutory framework <strong>for</strong> services to youngadults regardless of whether or not the Department opts <strong>for</strong> the federalFostering Connections Extension of Foster Care Beyond Age 18 The scope/focus of this redesign ef<strong>for</strong>t is on the young adults <strong>for</strong>merly infoster care program between the ages of 18 and 23 Future ef<strong>for</strong>ts will be geared toward the teen services framework <strong>Program</strong> design must be appealing to youth to ensure young people willparticipate and benefit from the services – the program design mustrecognize that young people exiting care are sometimes leery of continuedcontact with the child welfare agency, however, they often return to theagency asking <strong>for</strong> help within a few months of becoming adults The young adult services framework should be aligned with acceptedparenting practices to the degree possibleo Youth will make mistakes and must have the opportunity to learno Guidance (in the <strong>for</strong>m of casework) <strong>for</strong> the youth is an expectationo Acceptance of support means expectations <strong>for</strong> the young person Access to education and training services should be available to anypotentially eligible young adult <strong>for</strong>merly in foster care requestingassistance The child welfare system is obligated to in<strong>for</strong>m all potentially eligible youthof the available opportunities and provide access to services Young people should be able to move from one service level to another toensure maximum opportunity <strong>for</strong> success The framework <strong>for</strong> service delivery should specify obligations andaccountability <strong>for</strong> both the service providers and the youth recipients The current view that the “check” (or $1256 per month) is an entitlement isnot resulting in positive youth outcomes Youth who demonstrate the ability to handle funds responsibly must begiven increasing opportunities to manage funds on their own Youth have the option to apply <strong>for</strong> services – participation is voluntary onthe part of the youth Service delivery must be driven by quality assessment and planning –expectations and obligations <strong>for</strong> providers and youth must be clearDraft <strong>for</strong> reviewJuly 21, 2010

Planning <strong>for</strong> transition and self sufficiency must be based on the youngperson’s individual needsCurrently eligible populations should remain potentially eligible – servicelevels will change or alternative ways or providing services will beproposedMajor Changes ProposedCurrent Law: Full time school attendance primary eligibility requirement <strong>for</strong> Roadto IndependenceProposal: Replace with federal Fostering Connections eligibility requirements asbelow ensuring that the full population of youth exiting out-of-home care will beeligible (including youth exiting at age 18 in the custody of a relative and/or nonrelativewith ongoing court supervision of their cases)Current Law: Three types of young adult programs (Aftercare, Road toIndependence, Transitional Support)Proposal: Replace with two types of young adult programs – Intensive Servicesand Bridge Support Intensive Services key features are extensive case management, semiannualcourt oversight, cash assistance and/or purchase of housingservices and permanency/transition planning Eligibility <strong>for</strong> Intensive Support includeso Completing secondary education or in a program leading to anequivalent credentialo Enrolled in an institution that provides post-secondary or vocationaleducationo Participating in a program or activity designed to promote, orremove barriers, to employment;o Employed <strong>for</strong> at least 80 hours per month; oro Have a medical condition that renders the young person incapableof engaging in any of these activities Bridge Support key features are access to in<strong>for</strong>mation/referral and timelimited cash assistanceCurrent Law: Payments shall be made directly to young adult unless he/shedecides otherwiseProposal: Payments <strong>for</strong> housing assistance will be made on behalf of the youngperson until he/she graduates high school, attains GED, or reaches age 21Current Law: No mandated planning requirements <strong>for</strong> young adults receivingRoad to IndependenceProposal: Individualized transition and/or self-sufficiency plans will be required<strong>for</strong> all services <strong>for</strong> young adults and must specify tasks <strong>for</strong> both providers andyoung people with completion dates <strong>for</strong> identified goalsDraft <strong>for</strong> reviewJuly 21, 2010

Fiscal Analysis of Florida’s <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> RedesignFinal Reportby Katherine GaughenRecent research clearly demonstrates improved outcomes <strong>for</strong> young people who stay in fostercare past the age of 18. 1 Young people who remain in care are significantly more likely to attendcollege and as a result, experience long-term financial benefits on lifetime earnings. Moreover,young people who remain in care past the age of 18 are less likely to become pregnant as teens,more likely to receive independent living and health services that support their transition toadulthood, and more likely to develop and maintain critical connections to family and community.A recent Chapin Hall study concluded that the financial benefits of extending foster care—both <strong>for</strong>individual youth and <strong>for</strong> society—outweigh costs to government by a factor of approximately 2 to1. 2 Longer-term, states that invest in extending foster care past the age of 18 can expect to see adecrease in the use of public assistance, homelessness services, and incarceration among youththat age out of foster care.Through the Road to Independence, Transitional Support Services, and Aftercare SupportServices programs, Florida provides support <strong>for</strong> young people transitioning from foster care untiltheir 23 rd birthday. Despite Florida’s robust services <strong>for</strong> transitioning youth, the state is notconsistently achieving the outcomes established by the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Service AdvisoryCouncil (ILSAC). As a result, members of ILSAC and participants at the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Summit sponsored by the Florida Coalition <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong>ren determined that services to young adults<strong>for</strong>merly in foster care in Florida needed to be redesigned. As such, the Florida Department of<strong>Child</strong>ren and Families and ILSAC, with support from the Foster Care Work Group and the JimCasey Youth Opportunities Initiative, convened a workgroup and requested that The FinanceProject (TFP) assist in facilitating conversations regarding the redesign of independent livingservices to young adults and estimating the costs of the redesigned services.As the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Redesign Workgroup began their discussions, they also sought tomaximize new federal funding available through the Fostering Connections to Success andIncreasing Adoptions Act of 2008, which gives the states the option to extend Title IV-E eligibility<strong>for</strong> young people ages 18 to 21. Through the Act, States are able to receive federalreimbursement <strong>for</strong> qualifying young people under three IV-E programs: 31. Foster Care Maintenance: <strong>for</strong> young people who remain in foster care placements;2. Adoption Assistance: <strong>for</strong> young people adopted at age 16 or older through their 21 stbirthday; and1 Extending Foster Care to Age 21. Clark M. Peters, Amy Dworsky, Mark E. Courtney, Harold Pollackhttp://www.chapinhall.org/sites/default/files/publications/Issue_Brief%2006_23_09.pdf2 Ibid.3 Title IV-E eligible foster youth age 18 and older must be either: completing high school or an equivalent program; enrolled in post secondary or vocational school; participating in a program or activity designed to promote, or remove barriers to, employment; employed <strong>for</strong> at least 80 hours per month; or incapable of doing any of these activities due to a medical condition.The Finance Project 1

3. Guardianship Assistance: <strong>for</strong> youth that enter into relative guardianship at age 16 or olderthrough their 21 st birthday. 4The workgroup met in-person monthly between December 2009 and June 2010 and held regularworking conference calls between meetings. This report summarizes the decision making andrecommendations of these ef<strong>for</strong>ts.Redesign of <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> ServicesA first step in this process was to develop a new model of independent living services that wouldensure that young people achieve better outcomes as they transition to independence. Based onan analysis of current outcome data and discussion regarding what is currently working well <strong>for</strong>transitioning youth and areas that could be improved, the workgroup recommended that the threecurrent categories of services – Aftercare Support Services, Road to Independence, andTransitional Support Services – be eliminated and replaced with two alternative service categories:Intensive Support Services and Bridge Supports. In addition, the workgroup recommendedextending adoption and guardianship subsidies to age 21 <strong>for</strong> young people that were adopted orachieved legal guardianship at age 16 or 17.4 Fostering Connections created a new category of eligibility placement – the Guardianship Assistance <strong>Program</strong>. Stateshave the option of claiming reimbursement <strong>for</strong> qualifying children and youth placed with a relative guardian. States canchoose to also extend eligibility <strong>for</strong> these placements to older youth as well.The Finance Project 2

Florida’s Current <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services <strong>for</strong> Young Adults Transitioning fromFaster CareFlorida currently offers three programs to support young adults transitioning from foster care: Aftercare Support Services are available to assist young adults who were <strong>for</strong>merly infoster care in their ef<strong>for</strong>ts to continue to develop the skills and abilities necessary <strong>for</strong>independent living. The aftercare services available include, but are not limited to mentoringand tutoring; mental health services and substance abuse counseling; life skills classes,including credit management and preventive health activities; parenting classes; job andcareer skills training; counselor consultations; temporary financial assistance; and financialliteracy skills training. Aftercare Support Services are available to young adults that requestservices who are 18 but not yet 23 and who left foster care at age 18. The Road to Independence <strong>Program</strong> (RTI) is intended to help eligible students who are<strong>for</strong>mer foster children in this state to receive the educational and vocational training neededto achieve independence. RTI provides direct stipends to young people based on theirliving and educational needs and may be up to, but may not exceed, the amount of earningsthat the student would have been eligible to earn working a 40-hour-a-week federalminimum wage job. RTI is available to young adults ages 18-23 who:o Have earned a HS diploma or its equivalent and has been admitted <strong>for</strong> full-timeenrollment in an eligible postsecondary education institution;o Are enrolled full time in an accredited high school; oro Are enrolled full time in an accredited adult education program designed to provide thestudent with a high school diploma or its equivalent. Transitional Support Services include appropriate short-term funding and services, whichmay include financial, housing, counseling, employment, education, mental health, disability,and other services, if the young adult demonstrates that the services are critical to the youngadult's own ef<strong>for</strong>ts to achieve self-sufficiency and to develop a personal support system.Transitional Support Services are available to young adults who have reached age 18 butare not yet 23, were living in licensed foster care or supervised independent living at thetime of his or her 18th birthday, and had spent at least 6 months living in foster care be<strong>for</strong>ethat date.EligibilityFlorida’s young people transitioning from foster care fall into five eligibility categories:1. Young adults who exit state custody/licensed foster care at age 18 52. Young adults who exit open relative custody cases at age 183. Young adults who exit open unlicensed care at age 184. Young adults who are adopted at age 16-17 from the foster care system5. Young adults who are exit custody to a court approved dependency guardianship pursuantto Chapter 39 at age 16-17Based on their specific needs and the level of support that they receive prior to their 18 th birthday,the workgroup recommended:5 This includes young adults who, as dependents in foster care, were placed in a medical, mental health or substanceabuse treatment facility; placed in a DJJ/DOC facility, licensed foster care home, and residential group care.The Finance Project 3

All young adults who exit state custody from licensed foster care, relative custody, andunlicensed care at age 18, including cross-system youth, 6 who have participated in thedevelopment of a personalized transition plan and who meet Fostering Connections 7 andFlorida statute criteria will have the option to voluntarily opt-in to intensive supports andservices, including case management, housing, and services.Young people that choose not to participate in transition planning and opt out of continuedsupports and services may receive bridge support.Adoptive parents of young adults who were adopted at age 16-17 from the foster caresystem will continue to receive adoption subsidies through age 21 and will have continuedaccess to post-adoption services through age 21.Guardians of young adults who are placed with a dependency guardian at age 16-17 fromthe foster care system will continue to receive guardianship subsidies through age 21. 8Guardians will also have access to post-guardianship services through age 21. 9Eligibility GroupYoung adults who exitstate custody/licensedfoster care at age 18Cross-system youngadults who exit statecustody at age 18 who areserved by the Departmentof JuvenileJustice/Department ofCorrectionsYoung adults who exitrelative custody at age 18Young adults who exitunlicensed care at age 18Intensive Supportsand Services Young adults opt-inand who meetFosteringConnections criteria. Young adults opt-inand who meetFosteringConnections criteria. Young adults opt-inand who meetFosteringConnections criteria. Young adults opt-inand who meetFosteringBridge Supports Young adults who optout of intensivesupports and services. Young adults who optout of intensivesupports and services. Young adults who optout of intensivesupports and services. Young adults who optout of intensivesupports and services.Access toPermanencySubsidy and PostpermanencySupports throughage 216 Given their specialized needs, specific training should be available <strong>for</strong> case managers and CBC administrators whowork with cross-system youth.7 Fostering Connections Criteria include: Completing secondary education or in a program leading to an equivalent credential; Enrolled in an institution that provides post-secondary or vocational education; Participating in a program or activity designed to promote, or remove barriers, to employment; Employed <strong>for</strong> at least 80 hours per month; or Have a medical condition that renders the young person incapable of engaging in any of these activities.8 The cost of extending guardianship subsidies to 21 was not completed as part of this analysis because a separateworkgroup in Florida is reviewing options regarding guardianship. If guardianship payments are not extended to age 21<strong>for</strong> young people who achieve guardianship at ages 16 and 17, the workgroup recommends that those young peoplebecome eligible <strong>for</strong> intensive and bridge supports.9 Post-guardianship support services must be developed. These services should provide the same level ofsupport that post-adoption services do, but should be tailored to meet the needs of guardians.The Finance Project 4

Young adults who areadopted at age 16-17 fromthe foster care systemYoung adults who areplaced with a dependencyguardian at age 16-17 fromthe foster care systemConnections criteria. Young adultsadopted at 16+ Young adults whoachievedguardianship at 16+Young adults who exit state custody from licensed foster care at age 18, including cross-systemyouth, and young adults who exit relative custody and unlicensed relative care at age 18 whochoose to opt out of intensive services can opt back in at any time prior to their 21 st birthday aslong as they meet the Fostering Connections eligibility requirements.Regardless of their eligibility category, the workgroup agreed that participation in continuedsupports and services is voluntary <strong>for</strong> all young people and they should be made aware ofavailable supports and services during the transition planning process prior to their 18 th birthday.For cross-system youth in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice/Department ofCorrections, the county of jurisdiction has the responsibility <strong>for</strong> ensuring that comprehensivetransition planning has been completed prior to the young adult’s 18 th birthday. A recent QualityAssurance report noted that minimum requirements regarding transition planning required byFlorida statute are not regularly being met by providers. Thoughtful, youth-centered transitionalplanning is critical to implementing the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Redesign. In order to achieve betteroutcomes these practices need to be strengthened statewide.Service Categories in Redesigned <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> ModelThe workgroup proposed transitioning from Florida’s current array of independent living servicesand supports to: Intensive Supports and Services and Bridge Supports and Services. IntensiveSupports and Services provide funding <strong>for</strong> housing and maintenance and requires young people toparticipate in case management. Bridge Supports and Services ensure that a young person hasaccess to an <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Coordinator and provides services and time-limited cashassistance to assist young people in becoming independent. Following is a description of thesetwo service categories, as well as the proposed extension of subsidies <strong>for</strong> those adopted or movinginto kinship guardianship arrangements at age sixteen and older.Intensive Supports and ServicesYoung adults who exit state custody from licensed foster care, relative custody, or unlicensed careat age 18, including cross-system youth, who meet Fostering Connections criteria and opt tocontinue to receive supports and services must agree to engage in case management/lifecoaching, which will include at least monthly contact. 10 Portability of services is critical to youngadults and young adults must be able to access services statewide, however it is the county of theyouth’s residence that is responsible to ensure that monthly contact is made with young adults,their needs are assessed and services are provided/referred as specified in the transition plan. 11Key components of intensive supports and services include:10 The recommended caseload <strong>for</strong> caseworkers is 1:30 ratio, but it will be up to individual service providers to determineadequate caseload sizes to meet the needs of young adults in their care.11 Monthly contact could either be accomplished by the case manager/life coach from the county of origin making contactwith the young adult or through an agreement by which the county where the young person resides has monthly contactand reports back to the county of jurisdiction.The Finance Project 5

Support Services: Young adults who opt in to intensive services will have access to housingand an array of support services based on their transition plan. The services available include,but are not limited to, the following:- Mentoring and tutoring;- Mental health services and substance abuse counseling;- Life skills classes, including credit management and preventive health activities;- Parenting classes;- Job and career skills training;- Counselor consultations;- Temporary financial assistance; and- Financial literacy skills training.Housing/Placement Options: Eligible young adults that continue to receive intensive supportsand services will have access to an array of placement options that include graduated levels ofsupervision. The most appropriate setting <strong>for</strong> a young adult will be determined through thecase planning process and the transition planning process. Florida Statutes require activeyouth involvement in the process.All eligible young adults who opt to continue to receive supports and services will be eligible <strong>for</strong>“Tier 1” housing, in which payments will be made directly to the housing provider. Potential“Tier 1” settings may include:- Foster homes- Group homes- Scattered site apartments- Supervised apartmentsEligible young adults who have demonstrated high levels of independence and who havereceived a high school diploma or equivalent are eligible <strong>for</strong> direct stipends <strong>for</strong> housing, inwhich payments will be made directly to young people rather than to providers. 12 Decisionsregarding whether a young adult is prepared to manage a direct stipend will be determined withthe young adult in the case planning process. In addition to judicial proceedings, young adultswhose request <strong>for</strong> a stipend was denied will have access to a Fair Hearing in order to appealthe decision.Court Reviews: The cases of young adults who choose to receive supports and services willhave two court reviews per year, one of which will be a Permanency Hearing. 13 A copy of thecurrent Transition Plan must be filed with the court in advance of hearings. Any partyassociated with the case may file a progress report regarding the Transition Plan, but theservice provider is required to file a progress report.Bridge Supports and ServicesYoung adults who exit state custody from licensed foster care, relative custody, or unlicensed careat age 18, including cross-system youth, who do not meet criteria or opt out of continued supportservices will have access bridge supports. Bridge supports include access to an independentliving resource person who will provide in<strong>for</strong>mation and referral services upon request, supportservices and limited cash assistance as follows:12 Stipend amounts will follow the same rates as current RTI placements. Specific criteria regarding who is eligible toreceive stipends must be determined in more detail.13 If conducting two court reviews annually is cost-prohibitive, the subcommittee recommends that Florida exploreimplementing an Administrative Review process that could be conducted once per year along with a PermanencyHearing.The Finance Project 6

Support Services: The “bridge” services available include, but are not limited to, the following:- Mentoring and tutoring- Mental health services and substance abuse counseling- Life skills classes, including credit management and preventive health activities- Parenting classes- Job and career skills training- Counselor consultations- Temporary financial assistance- Financial literacy skills trainingCash Assistance: In order to receive cash assistance young adults must meet with anindependent living resource person and develop a 30- to 90-day interim self-sufficiency planthat details the specific actions that the service provider and youth will undertake to help theyoung adult transition to self-sufficiency. Based on that self-sufficiency plan, a budget of cashassistance and support services should be put into place. The cash assistance budget shouldnot exceed the amount of direct stipends that may be available to young people who opt toremain in care. Prior to the 30- to 90-day period expiring, a young adult who needs continuedsupport can meet again with the independent living resource person to show their progress andcreate a follow-on 30- to 90-day plan. Young adults who opt not to remain in care may utilizethis resource <strong>for</strong> a total of 12 months between ages 18 and 22, with the option to extend thatsupport to 18 of 36 months in extenuating circumstances. 14 For young adults who exit statecustody from licensed foster care, relative custody, and unlicensed care at age 18 who requirecontinued cash assistance support extensions, the independent living resource person willprovide in<strong>for</strong>mation and assess the benefits of opting into intensive supports and services.<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Resource Person: It is critical that young people who receive bridge supportmeet with a consistent independent living resource person and have a clear understanding ofhow to access bridge support across the state. This may require building a statewide website<strong>for</strong> transitioning youth, as well as posting in<strong>for</strong>mation through Facebook, FosterClub, etc.Guardianship and Adoption Subsidies at age 16+Young adults who are adopted or achieve guardianship at ages 16 and over will continue to beeligible <strong>for</strong> adoption or guardianship subsidy through age 21. 15 Young adults who have beenadopted at age 16 and over will also have continued access to post-adoption services until theyreach age 21. Young adults who achieve guardianship at age 16 and over should also haveaccess to post-guardianship services until age 21. Currently, post-guardianship services do notexist in Florida. It is critical that these services are developed to support both children and youngadults that have achieved permanency through guardianship.Potential Sources of Revenue - Current Spending on <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong>Services14 Criteria must be developed <strong>for</strong> extenuating circumstances. An appeals process <strong>for</strong> young adults who are deniedbridge support must also be defined.15 The cost of extending guardianship subsidies to 21 was not completed as part of this analysis because a separateworkgroup in Florida is reviewing options regarding guardianship. If guardianship payments are not extended to age 21<strong>for</strong> young people who achieve guardianship at ages 16 and 17, the workgroup recommends that those young peoplebecome eligible <strong>for</strong> intensive and bridge supports.The Finance Project 7

Florida currently makes significant investments in supports and services <strong>for</strong> older youthtransitioning from foster care. The workgroup considered those funding sources that currentlysupport maintenance, housing, and case management functions which have the potential to be IV-E reimbursable. 16In SFY 2010-11, Florida was allocated $5.7 million in federal Chafee funds and $2.4 million inEducation and Training Voucher (ETV) funds, which will be matched with $1.4 million and$599,000 in state General Funds, respectively. In addition, Florida has allocated $19.25 million instate General Funds to support the current Road-to-Independence, Transitional Support Services,Aftercare Support Services, and Supervised <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> programs. 17Despite these significant investments by the state, utilization of independent living servicescontinues to increase and the allocated funds have not met the need <strong>for</strong> the last several years.Accordingly, Community Based Care agencies (CBCs) have made up the difference between stateallocations and actual expenditures <strong>for</strong> the last several years. In SFY 2009-2010, the gap betweenallocations and expenditures <strong>for</strong> independent living was approximately $16.9 million.Existing Sources of Revenue – SFY 2010-11Funding Streams Federal State FundingChafee $5,764,276 $1,441,070Education and Training$2,396,966 $599,242VouchersState General Fund $18,475,167CBC “above and beyond”Contribution$16,855,984Subtotal $8,161,242 $37,371,463Grand Total $45,532,705Projections of the Net Fiscal Impact of the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> RedesignBased on the design work completed and the review of current state spending on young people 18to 22, The Finance Project worked with DCF staff to develop cost projections and determine thenet fiscal impact of the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Redesign. The workgroup agreed that Florida shouldseek to draw down additional Title IV-E funds available through the Fostering Connections Act inorder to finance the redesign work.Under Fostering Connections, states have the option to extend eligibility <strong>for</strong> three separate Title IV-E programs: foster care maintenance, adoption assistance, and guardianship assistance.16 Florida currently operates under a Title IV-E waiver. As a result, Florida receives Title IV-E funds in a “block grant”,which the state distributes to Community Based Care (CBC) agencies to provide foster care maintenance and casemanagement to children age 0-17. This fiscal analysis assumes that Florida will not extend the block grant to includeyoung people ages 18-21 and will instead draw down Title IV-E funds <strong>for</strong> this population in line with current Title IV-Eprocedures.17 Supervised <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> costs approximately $775,000 per year. Since this program serves young people ages16-17, these funds are reserved <strong>for</strong> this population in the analysis, leaving a total of $18,475,167 which can be directedtoward supporting Intensive and Bridge Supports and Services.The Finance Project 8

Extending foster care eligibility while not extending support <strong>for</strong> adoption and guardianship cancreate disincentives to permanency. To ensure permanency remains a critical priority <strong>for</strong> olderyouth in foster care, the workgroup recommended extending eligibility across all three IV-Eprogram areas. The cost of extending guardianship subsidies to 21, however, was not completedas part of this analysis because a separate workgroup in Florida is reviewing options regardingguardianship. If guardianship payments are not extended to age 21 <strong>for</strong> young people who achieveguardianship at ages 16 and 17, the workgroup recommends that those young people becomeeligible <strong>for</strong> intensive and bridge supports.The Finance Project worked with DCF staff to gather trend data to project the number of youngpeople expected to access intensive services and bridge supports and develop detailed costassumptions related to placement and case management costs. These data were used toestimate the net fiscal impact to Florida, taking into account existing state spending as well asprojected new federal revenue, over the next five years.De-linking Title IV-E Eligibility <strong>for</strong> Adoption Subsidy from AFDCThe Fostering Connections Act de-linked eligibility <strong>for</strong> adoption subsidies from old AFDC incomestandards and phases in this change over time. Moving <strong>for</strong>ward, more children and youth will beeligible to receive this subsidy, thereby increasing IV-E revenue to the state. Based on an analysisof adoption trends over the past five years, Florida can expect to see a sizable increase in Title IV-E revenue as a result of de-linking eligibility <strong>for</strong> IV-E reimbursement from AFDC requirements <strong>for</strong>adoption subsidy. By 2015, Florida can expect to see approximately $3.3 million new dollarscoming into the state. New revenue must be reinvested in child welfare services and as assumedin this analysis, has the potential to offset costs associated with extending eligibility <strong>for</strong> adoptionassistance to 21 and the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Redesign.De-linking Title IV-E Eligibility <strong>for</strong> Adoption Subsidy from AFDC Standards2011 2012 2013 2014 2015EstimatedAnnual NewTitle IV-ERevenue$310,785 $656,821 $1,238,352 $2,081,913 $3,292,110Extending Adoption Assistance to Age 21Over the past five years, the number of finalized adoptions in Florida has increased steadily, ashas the percentage of those adoptions that involve young people ages 16 and 17. In SFY 2009,approximately 3.5% of all adoptions in Florida involved 16- and 17-year-olds. Based on aregression analysis of the trends of the number of older youth adopted over the past five years,The Finance Project projected that an average of approximately 150 young people ages 16 and 17would achieve adoption annually and would be eligible <strong>for</strong> adoption subsidies of $417 per month. 18Projected costs to extend adoption assistance are relatively modest in early years ofimplementation (beginning at around $117,000 in 2011) and grow and then level out through 2015.Fiscal Impact of Extending Adoption Assistance to Age 212011 2012 2013 2014 2015Estimated Cost $262,860 $881,251 $1,552,914 $1,988,112 $2,082,56218 Costs include a projected 3% increase in subsidy levels annually.The Finance Project 9

Estimated AnnualTitle IV-Revenue $145,756 $488,654 $861,091 $1,102,408 $1,154,780Net State FiscalImpact $117,104 $392,598 $691,823 $885,704 $927,781<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> RedesignProjecting the costs of redesigning the independent living program involved a more complex set ofcalculations. Total costs can vary significantly based on different sets of assumptions related tothe projected number of young people who opt to take advantage of intensive services versusbridge supports. Based on the design considerations created by the workgroup (described earlierin this report), The Finance Project created cost projections <strong>for</strong> two different levels of eligibility: Version 1 assumes that young adults who exit state custody/licensed foster care, relativecustody, or unlicensed care at age 18 who meet the federal Fostering Connections criteriaare eligible to voluntarily opt to receive intensive supports and services through age 22. Version 2 assumes that young adults who exit state custody/licensed foster care, relativecustody, and unlicensed care at age 18 who meet the federal Fostering Connections criteriaare eligible to voluntarily opt to receive intensive supports and services through age 20.Only young people enrolled in post-secondary education will be eligible to opt into intensivesupports and services through age 22.Below is an overview of the general cost assumptions followed by the assumptions associated withthe two different eligibility models.General Cost AssumptionsBoth eligibility models assume that young adults who exit state custody/licensed foster care at age18, young adults who exit open relative custody cases at age 18, and young adults who exit openunlicensed care at age 18 who meet the federal Fostering Connections criteria are eligible tovoluntarily opt to receive intensive supports and services through age 20. Both versions alsoassume the same general cost assumptions related to placement and case managementdescribed in the table below. 70% of 18-19 year olds would opt to receive intensiveUptake Ratessupports and services 50% of 20-22 year olds would opt to receive intensivesupports and services, when applicable 30% of 18-22 year olds would opt to receive bridgesupports in any given monthCase Management Costs 19 Fully-loaded salary of the caseworker, supervisor and Average caseload ratio of 1:30program director Overhead costs of $13,000 per caseworker Indirect costs of $13,000 per caseworker TOTAL: $261 per young person per monthPlacement Costs Current RTI rates budgeted at the average cost of$933 per month 2019 The caseload <strong>for</strong> caseworkers is budgeted at a 1:30 ratio. Funding will be distributed to CBCs per young adult servedand service providers can determine adequate caseload sizes to meet the needs of young adults in their care.20 Costs include a projected 3% increase in subsidy levels annually.The Finance Project 10

General Revenue AssumptionsIn addition to calculating the costs of extending foster care to 21, The Finance Project alsoincluded available revenue to determine the net fiscal impact. The primary revenues included newestimated Title IV-E revenue as a result of the Fostering Connections Act; federal Chafee and ETVallocations; state Chafee and ETV match; state General Funds <strong>for</strong> Road to Independence,Aftercare Support Services and Transitional Support Services; and CBC contributions.Version 1: Intensive Supports and Services Available to Eligible Young People Ages 18-22The first version of cost projections assumes that young adults who exit state custody/licensedfoster care, relative custody, or unlicensed care at age 18 who meet the federal FosteringConnections criteria are eligible to voluntarily opt to receive intensive supports and servicesthrough age 22. Young people who chose not to opt into intensive supports and services mayhave access to bridge supports <strong>for</strong> a total of twelve months between ages 18-22.Costs based on these assumptions begin at $12.3 million in 2011 and increase to $18.7 million in2015.Version 1: Fiscal Impact of <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Redesign2011 2012 2013 2014 2015Estimated Costs $72,840,745 $75,522,683 $77,457,169 $78,862,709 $80,677,066Estimated RevenuesNew Title IV-E $14,987,193 $14,994,866 $15,257,276 $15,841,862 $16,419,383Federal Chafee $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276State Chafee Match $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070Federal ETV $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966State ETV Match $599,242 $599,242 $599,242 $599,242 $599,242State GF $18,475,167 $18,475,167 $18,475,167 $18,475,167 $18,475,167CBC Contribution ("aboveand beyond" originalallocation) $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984Total Revenues $60,519,898 $60,527,571 $60,789,981 $61,374,567 $61,952,088Net State FiscalImpact $12,320,847 $14,995,112 $16,667,188 $17,488,142 $18,724,978Version 2: Intensive Supports and Services Available to Eligible Young People Ages 18-20;Intensive Supports and Services Available Only to Young Adults Enrolled in Post-SecondaryEducation Ages 21-22The second version of cost projections assumes that young adults who exit state custody/licensedfoster care, relative custody, and unlicensed care at age 18 who meet the federal FosteringConnections criteria are eligible to voluntarily opt to receive intensive supports and servicesthrough age 20. Only young people enrolled in post-secondary education will be eligible to opt intointensive supports and services through age 22. Young people who chose not to opt into intensivesupports and services may have access to bridge supports <strong>for</strong> a total of twelve months betweenages 18-22 regardless of their educational status.The Finance Project 11

Costs based on these assumptions begin at $1 million in 2011 and increases to $5.6 million in2015.Version 2: Fiscal Impact of <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Redesign2011 2012 2013 2014 2015Estimated Costs $61,541,131 $62,458,097 $63,950,596 $65,650,235 $67,507,259Estimated RevenuesNew Title IV-E $14,987,193 $14,994,866 $15,257,276 $15,841,862 $16,419,383Federal Chafee $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276State Chafee Match $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070Federal ETV $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966State ETV Match $599,242 $599,242 $599,242 $599,242 $599,242State GF $18,475,167 $18,475,167 $18,475,167 $18,475,167 $18,475,167CBC Contribution ("aboveand beyond" originalallocation) $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984Total Revenues $60,519,898 $60,527,571 $60,789,981 $61,374,567 $61,952,088Net State FiscalImpact $1,021,233 $1,930,526 $3,160,615 $4,275,669 $5,555,171Projecting the Net Impact of Extending Eligibility Across All Three IV-E <strong>Program</strong>sBased on the cost revenue assumptions developed by the workgroup, The Finance Projectproduced a net fiscal impact calculation of extending adoption assistance to age 21 <strong>for</strong> youngpeople adopted at age 16 and 17 and the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Redesign. These projectionsassume use of the new IV-E revenue the state will receive as a result of the adoption de-linkprovision to offset increased costs. The attached tables summarize the costs and revenuesassociated with a comprehensive approach to extending IV-E eligibility across program areas.In 2011, total costs are $12.1 million using assumptions of Version 1 and $827,552 usingassumptions of Version 2. By 2015, total costs are $16.3 million using assumptions of Version 1and $3.2 million using assumptions of Version 2.The Finance Project 12

<strong>Program</strong>s FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015VERSION 1New Practice Model <strong>for</strong> all Young Adults Ages 18-22Extending Intensive Supports and Services 18 to 20Estimated Placement and Case ManagementCost <strong>for</strong> Licensed Foster Care $13,102,986 $27,296,117 $38,634,645 $40,535,382 $42,432,354Estimated Placement and Case ManagementCost <strong>for</strong> Relative Care $1,195,205 $2,355,734 $3,115,192 $2,902,295 $2,673,820Estimated Placement and Case ManagementCost <strong>for</strong> Non-Relative Care $1,018,137 $2,066,967 $2,849,070 $2,870,047 $2,889,718Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue <strong>for</strong> LicensedFoster Care $4,482,529 $9,337,996 $13,216,903 $13,867,145 $14,516,099Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue <strong>for</strong> RelativeCare $408,879 $805,896 $1,065,707 $992,874 $914,713Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue <strong>for</strong> Non-Relative Care $348,305 $707,109 $974,666 $981,842 $988,572TOTAL - all young people $10,076,616 $20,867,818 $29,341,631 $30,465,862 $31,576,508Extending Intensive Supports and Services 21 to 22Estimated Cost $0 $0 $0 $11,963,903 $24,778,502Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue $0 $0 $0 $0 $0TOTAL $0 $0 $0 $11,963,903 $24,778,502Bridge SupportsEstimated Cost $1,381,925 $2,859,560 $4,437,788 $6,118,317 $7,902,673TOTAL $1,381,925 $2,859,560 $4,437,788 $6,118,317 $7,902,673Extending Adoption Assistance to Age 21Estimated Cost $262,860 $881,251 $1,552,914 $1,988,112 $2,082,562Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue $145,756 $488,654 $861,091 $1,102,408 $1,154,780TOTAL $117,104 $392,598 $691,823 $885,704 $927,781Existing Services CohortEstimated Cost of Intensive Services $50,375,670 $36,354,295 $25,234,622 $12,850,716 $0Estimated Cost of Bridge Supports $5,766,821 $4,590,010 $3,185,851 $1,622,050 $0Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue $9,747,481 $4,143,866 $0 $0 $0TOTAL $46,395,010 $36,800,439 $28,420,473 $14,472,765 $0Promotion of Adoption through Delinking Adoption Assistance Requirements from AFDCEstimated annual Title IV-E revenue $310,785 $656,821 $1,238,352 $2,081,913 $3,292,110TOTAL FISCAL IMPACTEstimated Cost $73,103,605 $76,403,935 $79,010,083 $80,850,821 $82,759,628Total IV-E Revenue $15,443,734 $16,140,341 $17,356,719 $19,026,182 $20,866,274SUBTOTAL $57,659,871 $60,263,594 $61,653,364 $61,824,639 $61,893,353Federal Chafee $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276State Chafee Match $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070Federal ETV $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966State ETV Match $599,242 $599,242 $599,242 $599,242 $599,242State GF $19,250,167 $19,250,167 $19,250,167 $19,250,167 $19,250,167CBC Contribution ("above and beyond" originalallocation) $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984SIL Reserves ($775,000) ($775,000) ($775,000) ($775,000) ($775,000)NET FISCAL IMPACT $12,127,166 $14,730,889 $16,120,659 $16,291,934 $16,360,648The Finance Project 13

<strong>Program</strong>s FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015VERSION 2New Practice Model <strong>for</strong> all Young Adults Ages 18-20; Enrollment in Post-secondary Education Required <strong>for</strong> Age 21-22Extending Intensive Supports and Services 18 to 20Estimated Placement and Case ManagementCost <strong>for</strong> Licensed Foster Care $13,102,986 $27,296,117 $38,634,645 $40,535,382 $42,432,354Estimated Placement and Case ManagementCost <strong>for</strong> Relative Care $1,195,205 $2,355,734 $3,115,192 $2,902,295 $2,673,820Estimated Placement and Case ManagementCost <strong>for</strong> Non-Relative Care $1,018,137 $2,066,967 $2,849,070 $2,870,047 $2,889,718Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue <strong>for</strong> LicensedFoster Care $4,482,529 $9,337,996 $13,216,903 $13,867,145 $14,516,099Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue <strong>for</strong> RelativeCare $408,879 $805,896 $1,065,707 $992,874 $914,713Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue <strong>for</strong> Non-Relative Care $348,305 $707,109 $974,666 $981,842 $988,572TOTAL - all young people $10,076,616 $20,867,818 $29,341,631 $30,465,862 $31,576,508Extending Intensive Supports and Services 21 to 22Estimated Cost $0 $0 $0 $5,530,484 $11,608,695Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue $0 $0 $0 $0 $0TOTAL $0 $0 $0 $5,530,484 $11,608,695Bridge SupportsEstimated Cost $1,381,925 $2,859,560 $4,437,788 $6,118,317 $7,902,673TOTAL $1,381,925 $2,859,560 $4,437,788 $6,118,317 $7,902,673Extending Adoption Assistance to Age 21Estimated Cost $262,860 $881,251 $1,552,914 $1,988,112 $2,082,562Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue $145,756 $488,654 $861,091 $1,102,408 $1,154,780TOTAL $117,104 $392,598 $691,823 $885,704 $927,781Existing Services CohortEstimated Cost of Intensive Services $38,020,203 $22,122,214 $10,515,647 $5,515,143 $0Estimated Cost of Bridge Supports $6,822,674 $5,757,504 $4,398,253 $2,178,569 $0Estimated Annual Title IV-E Revenue $9,747,481 $4,143,866 $0 $0 $0TOTAL $35,095,397 $23,735,853 $14,913,900 $7,693,711 $0Promotion of Adoption through Delinking Adoption Assistance Requirements from AFDCEstimated annual Title IV-E revenue $98,886 $310,785 $656,821 $1,238,352 $2,081,913 $3,292,110TOTAL FISCAL IMPACTEstimated Cost $0 $61,803,991 $63,339,349 $65,503,510 $67,638,347 $69,589,821Total IV-E Revenue $98,886 $15,443,734 $16,140,341 $17,356,719 $19,026,182 $20,866,274SUBTOTAL $46,360,257 $47,199,008 $48,146,791 $48,612,165 $48,723,546Federal Chafee $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276 $5,764,276State Chafee Match $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070 $1,441,070Federal ETV $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966 $2,396,966State ETV Match $599,242 $599,242 $599,242 $599,242 $599,242State GF $19,250,167 $19,250,167 $19,250,167 $19,250,167 $19,250,167CBC Contribution ("above and beyond" originalallocation) $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984 $16,855,984SIL Reserves ($775,000) ($775,000) ($775,000) ($775,000) ($775,000)NET FISCAL IMPACT $827,552 $1,666,303 $2,614,086 $3,079,460 $3,190,841ConclusionThis analysis is intended to support state leaders in considering how best to provide supports andservices to this particularly vulnerable population and the costs and revenues associated withvarious programmatic assumptions. Although the state is facing a challenging fiscal environment,investments in this population of young people have the potential to yield significant and long-termThe Finance Project 14

enefits. Given that Florida’s existing investment in this population is not consistently achievingthe outcomes established by the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Service Advisory Council, a relatively modestinvestment to enhance services to young people transitioning from foster care is expected to yieldsignificantly better outcomes.AcknowledgementsThe authors would to express our sincere thanks to Jane Soltis, Gay Frizzel, Diane Zambito andmembers of the workgroup <strong>for</strong> their leadership, commitment, and creative thinking throughout thisprocess. We extend our deepest appreciation to staff of Florida’s Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren andFamilies who responded to countless requests <strong>for</strong> data and whose diligent ef<strong>for</strong>ts made thisanalysis possible. Thanks also to the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative and the Foster CareWork Group <strong>for</strong> supporting this technical assistance engagement.The Finance Project 15

George Sheldon, SecretaryDon Winstead, Deputy SecretaryJim Sewell, Chief of StaffMary Cagle, Director of <strong>Child</strong>rens legal ServicesPeter Digre, Assistant Secretary <strong>for</strong> OperationsDavid Fairbanks, Assistant Secretary <strong>for</strong> programsAlan Abramowitz, Director of Family SafetyJuly 28, 2010Dear Colleagues:On behalf of the RTI Redesign Work Group <strong>for</strong>med in December 2009 andconcluded in June 2010, I extend our deep appreciation <strong>for</strong> the Department of<strong>Child</strong>ren and Families interest and commitment to the issue of youth aging outof foster care.The workgroup was composed of a wide and diverse group of providers,advocates, and youth, who were charged with considering and recommendingchanges <strong>for</strong> the necessary services and supports <strong>for</strong> supporting the 18 to 21year old youth. The workgroup was asked to consider the optional provision ofextending foster care under the Fostering Connections Federal legislation.The workgroup felt that it was also imperative to include a fiscal analysis andimplications of any recommended redesign.Despite the diverse perspectives the redesign workgroup was able to reachconsensus. All of the members of this group were dedicated and committed tofinding a better alternative to the current system and provided their time, voiceand ef<strong>for</strong>ts in the true spirit of volunteerism.Gay Frizzell of DCF has been integral to providing exemplary staff support andorganization <strong>for</strong> the workgroup.

Kate Gaughen of the Finance Project, Washington DC has provided a level ofexpertise in developing the fiscal analysis of the recommended model.Jim Sewell has provided the level headed and proactive facilitation that he hasbecome known <strong>for</strong>.The recommendations were presented to DCF senior management and otherinterested stakeholders at a public meeting on July 21, 2010 at the DCFSuncoast Region office.Guiding principles <strong>for</strong> this work group included:Change is needed in the current statutory framework <strong>for</strong> services toyoung adults regardless of whether or not the Department opts <strong>for</strong> thefederal Fostering Connections Extension of Foster Care Beyond Age 18The scope/focus of this redesign ef<strong>for</strong>t is on the young adults <strong>for</strong>merly infoster care program between the ages of 18 and 23Future ef<strong>for</strong>ts will be geared toward the teen services framework<strong>Program</strong> design must be appealing to youth to ensure young people willparticipate and benefit from the services – the program design mustrecognize that young people exiting care are sometimes leery ofcontinued contact with the child welfare agency, however, they oftenreturn to the agency asking <strong>for</strong> help within a few months of becomingadultsThe young adult services framework should be aligned with acceptedparenting practices to the degree possibleo Youth will make mistakes and must have the opportunity to learno Guidance (in the <strong>for</strong>m of casework) <strong>for</strong> the youth is an expectationo Acceptance of support means expectations <strong>for</strong> the young personAccess to education and training services should be available to anypotentially eligible young adult <strong>for</strong>merly in foster care requestingassistanceThe child welfare system is obligated to in<strong>for</strong>m all potentially eligibleyouth of the available opportunities and provide access to servicesYoung people should be able to move from one service level to another toensure maximum opportunity <strong>for</strong> successThe framework <strong>for</strong> service delivery should specify obligations andaccountability <strong>for</strong> both the service providers and the youth recipientsThe current view that the “check” (or $1256 per month) is an entitlementis not resulting in positive youth outcomesYouth who demonstrate the ability to handle funds responsibly must begiven increasing opportunities to manage funds on their ownYouth have the option to apply <strong>for</strong> services – participation is voluntary onthe part of the youth

Service delivery must be driven by quality assessment and planning –expectations and obligations <strong>for</strong> providers and youth must be clear Planning <strong>for</strong> transition and self sufficiency must be based on the youngperson’s individual needs Currently eligible populations should remain potentially eligible – servicelevels will change or alternative ways or providing services will beproposedKey components and major changes of the recommendation are:Currently full time school attendance is the primary eligibilityrequirement <strong>for</strong> RTIProposed replacement with federal fostering connections eligibilityrequirements as below ensuring the full population of youth existing outof home care will be eligible including youth exiting at 18 in the custodyof a relative and or non relative with ongoing court supervision of thecases.Florida should exercise the voluntary option of extending foster care toage 21 under the Foster Connections and Adoption Act of 2008.Currently there are three types of supports available Aftercare, Road toIndependence and Transitional SupportProposed is to replace with two programs Intensive and Bridge supportBoth programs are voluntary.Key features of intensive services are case management, semiannualcourt oversight, permanency and transition planning, needed supportsand services and housing in a two tiered system plan.Eligibility <strong>for</strong> intensive services includes:Completing secondary education or in a program leading to anequivalent credentialEnrolled in an institution that provides post secondary or vocationaleducation, participating in program or activity designed dot promoteor remove barriers to employmentEmployed <strong>for</strong> at least 80 hours per month or have a medical conditionthat renders the youth incapable of engaging tin these activitiesBridge Support key features are access to in<strong>for</strong>mation/referral andservices and time limited cash assistance.

Current law allow payments made directly to young adult unless he orshe decides otherwiseProposed –payments <strong>for</strong> housing assistance will be made on behalf of theyoung person until he/she graduates from high school, attains GED orreaches 21Current law does not require planning requirements <strong>for</strong> young adultsreceiving RTIProposed – Individualized transition and or self sufficiency (<strong>for</strong> bridgesupport) plans will be required <strong>for</strong> all services and must specify tasks <strong>for</strong>both providers and young people with completion dates <strong>for</strong> identifiedgoals.Portability of services must be addressed to insure services are deliveredin the location that the young adult is living.The RTI Redesign Work Group members stand ready to work with DCF toanswer questions and to provide feedback in any modifications that thedepartment may chose to make. We are well aware that there is still work todo in translating the official DCF recommendations into legislative languageand to modify the current needs assessment. We are confident that continuedinvolvement of the workgroup members to bring this issue to resolution willprovide the community support necessary <strong>for</strong> successful legislative action andimplementation.We look <strong>for</strong>ward to your response to the RTI Workgroup recommendations.Sincerely,Jane V. SoltisJane V. SoltisChair, <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Services Advisory CouncilCo Facilitator, RTI Redesign WorkgroupVP <strong>Program</strong>s, Eckerd Family Foundation

National YouthChapter 09in TransitionDatabase

National Youth in Transition DatabaseDraft- Draft-DraftBackgroundIn 1999, Congress passed Public Law 106-169, establishing the John H. Chafee Foster CareIndependence <strong>Program</strong> (CFCIP), amending section 477 of the Social Security Act. This lawexpanded state funding to carry out programs to help youth transition from foster care to selfsufficiency.The law also required the federal Administration <strong>for</strong> <strong>Child</strong>ren and Families (ACF)to develop a data collection system to track independent living services states provide to youth,and develop outcomes to measure states’ success in preparing youth <strong>for</strong> independent living. Thelaw requires ACF to impose a penalty of between 1 and 5 percent of states’ annual Chafeeallotment <strong>for</strong> any state that does not comply with the reporting requirements.To meet this mandate, ACF published a rule in the Federal Register on February 26, 2008. Therule establishes the National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD) requiring states to conductclient-specific data collection activities on an ongoing basis. The rule directs states toincorporate NYTD in<strong>for</strong>mation collection and reporting through their Statewide Automated<strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> In<strong>for</strong>mation System (SACWIS), Florida Safe Families Network, in Florida.Florida must develop a youth survey tool, similar to the <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Checklist, and addFSFN functions in order to transmit this federally required in<strong>for</strong>mation to ACF.OverviewThere are two major components to NYTD:1) Caseworker Piece – There are 14 categories of independent living services to youththat must be reported by the caseworker. Every six months Florida must report the all<strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> and/or financial services to the “served population” PAID <strong>for</strong> orprovided by sub-contracted services providers. This report must be produced from theSACWIS system and it is regardless of age and foster care status (youth in DJJ,relative placements, out-of-home care, in-home). The service categories are: <strong>Independent</strong> living skills needs assessment Academic Support Post-secondary academic support Career Preparation Employment programs or vocational training Housing education and home management training Budget and financial management assistance Health education and risk management Family support and healthy marriage education Mentoring Supervised independent living Room and board financial assistance Education financial assistance Other financial assistance

2) Youth Piece – The second component requires that outcome data is collected onyouth in foster care at age 17 (baseline population), and then at ages 19 and 21(follow-up population). The following youth outcomes must be reported by the youthregardless of other in<strong>for</strong>mation and must also come from the SACWIS system. Financial self-sufficiency Experience with homelessness Educational attainment Positive adult connections High risk behavior Access to health insuranceA new cohort is surveyed every three years. Questions are designed to ask about the last twoyears of the young adult’s life.In order to be in compliance with the NYTD rules, Florida must submit data [defined as a leastone answer to one of the questions] on at least 60% of youth discharged from foster care that arepart of the follow-up population.Penalty <strong>for</strong> non-compliance is a maximum of 5% annually and does not affect the Education andTraining Voucher (ETV) allocation.

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Florida SafeChapter 10Families Network

This <strong>Independent</strong> <strong>Living</strong> Notebook was produced by Florida’s <strong>Center</strong> <strong>for</strong> theAdvancement of <strong>Child</strong> <strong>Welfare</strong> Practice at the University of South Florida <strong>for</strong>the Florida Department of <strong>Child</strong>ren and FamiliesDecember 2010

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