A Positive Change
Delaware’s Outcomes Matter initiative helped cut teen entries into the child welfare system by 40% in just 2.5 years.
In 2011, Delaware’s child welfare system wasn’t just in trouble — it was in crisis, with too many teens entering out-of-home care and later exiting foster care disconnected from family. To fix this broken system, the state launched a sweeping, data-driven reform effort called Outcomes Matter. The initiative boosted morale among caseworkers and gave kids and families a critical voice in the decision-making process. But the best part? The effort helped improve the well-being of Delaware’s children and families.
Delaware learned: First and above all else, system improvements have to be about child and family engagement. When systems give families a voice in the decision-making process, families have a better chance at success.