Volunteers are needed in 69 counties in Kentucky to serve on Citizen Foster Care Review Boards which are responsible for reviewing the cases of children in foster care and making recommendations.
Volunteers are needed to hear cases in Trigg, Marshall, Muhlenberg, and Crittenden counties among others.
Volunteers have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children who are in foster care due to dependency, neglect, or abuse. In Kentucky, thousands of children are placed in foster and other out-of-home care each year.
The Citizen Foster Care Review Boards, comprised of court-appointed volunteers, conduct interactive reviews on these children and provide recommendations to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and state courts on their behalf. The goal is to ensure that children receive the necessary services while in care and are placed in safe and permanent homes as quickly as possible.
Volunteers typically review cases one day a month, with the specific time varying depending on the board. Those interested in volunteering must apply, consent to a criminal record and Central Registry checks, and complete six hours of initial training. The training consists of two Zoom sessions and two self-study webinars. It is recommended to apply as soon as possible to undergo the screening process and, if approved, be scheduled for training.
Once a potential volunteer completes the training, a recommendation is made to the chief judge of the local Family Court or District Court for appointment to the Citizen Foster Care Review Board.
To apply and obtain more information, visit the Kentucky Court of Justice’s website.
