top of page

Our Family Treatment Court (FTC) Program

HISTORY

Family Treatment Courts (FTC) are specialized courts for families involved in the child welfare system due to parental substance misuse. These courts provide wraparound services and multidisciplinary support to address substance use and promote stable, long-term family reunification. Established in 2003, DC’s FTC includes CASA DC as one of its multidisciplinary stakeholders, working with youth in FTC cases. The goal of the program is to reduce the time children spend in foster care by addressing parental substance misuse and reunifying families within 12-15 months.

YOUTH SERVED

FTC serves DC’s vulnerable youth and families impacted by parental substance misuse.

PROGRAM GOALS

The mission of CASA DC’s FTC program is to promote safe and permanent homes for youth and families impacted by parental substance misuse and maximize chances for family reunification through strength-based, trauma-informed, one-on-one engagement and advocacy.

PROGRAM IMPACT

Since 2014, CASA DC’s FTC program has served over 100 children. National evidence-based research demonstrates the effectiveness of FTC programs, revealing that parents involved in family treatment courts are twice as likely to enter and complete treatment. Additionally, children of FTC participants spend significantly less time in foster care, and family reunification rates are 50% higher for those involved in the program.

​

In FY 2024, 100% of FTC CASA volunteers focused on educating youth about the impact of intergenerational substance use and potential triggers. Furthermore, 86% of FTC CASA volunteers provided activities/resources to reunifying families to promote healthy family time and bonding.

ADVOCATE PREREQUISITES 

In addition to the robust, nationally recognized 30 hour CASA pre-service training, FTC CASA volunteers receive ongoing coaching and support in the following areas:​

  • Foundational understanding of substance use disorders, recovery, trauma, and how they impact the youth’s development and family dynamic​

  • The effects of substance misuse in youth​

  • How to talk to youth about substance use​

  • How to support the strengthening and healing of the family dynamic

bottom of page