ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the process of initiating family group conferences (FGC) in North Carolina and considers the difficulties in main-streaming FGC. It proposes a partnership approach for respecting the integrity of FGC philosophy and practice and focuses on how the concept of concern can offer a simplifying starting point for alternative approaches to child welfare reform. The family-centered, partnership-building framework of FGC offers one means of making the service system more responsive to family and community concerns. Community development has historically emphasized the participation of citizens in identifying issues and their engagement in mutual processes of community problem solving. These basic community practice tenets build on a shared vision and commitment to action. With the plan in place, the family group and involved community organizations work with the authorities to protect and assist family members. If the plan becomes unfeasible or unhelpful or the family's situation changes dramatically, an FGC can be reconvened.
