Strengthening children and families through prevention and intervention: a court and community-based approach
Upstream: collaboration for safer children, stronger families
Upstream is a court-led, community-based initiative that employs early intervention to prevent children from being mistreated and help create more cohesive families. Through strategic mapping and coordinated planning, this approach empowers courts, child welfare agencies, and local partners to collaborate on building better communities.
Who should read this?
- Judicial officers & community service providers: Get guidance on building local partnerships and leading efforts to improve outcomes for children and families.
- Court administrators: Learn how to implement the Upstream model using existing infrastructure, staff, and community resources.
- Child welfare leaders & state policymakers: Explore how court-led community partnerships can reinforce prevention through early intervention strategies.
Why this guide matters
Preventing the mistreatment of children and helping strengthen families demands being proactive. This guide from NCSC, the State Justice Institute, COSCA, and CCJ equips your court with a proven model to work upstream of harm, helping families access the support they need while reducing reliance on child welfare interventions and court involvement.
Top takeaways from Upstream
Prevention requires partnership
Building strong family outcomes starts by connecting courts, child welfare agencies, and communities to collectively address risks early.
Court leadership is key
Courts are uniquely positioned to convene stakeholders and lead statewide and local efforts to create safer systems and stronger families.
Local mapping leads the way
Upstream's mapping workshops help communities identify gaps, align priorities, and design targeted action plans for change.
Fair & impartial justice must be intentional
Every Upstream plan should prioritize inclusive services and eliminate systemic barriers that impact underserved families and vulnerable children.
FAQs
Build stronger children & families
Read our full report for step-by-step guidance for meaningful community collaboration.
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