Family Preservation Foundation Inc.

Family Preservation Foundation Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving family rights and supporting children and families within the public child welfare system. The foundation focuses on providing pro bono legal services to low-income families, advocating for policy changes, and promoting family preservation over foster care.

Mission and Activities

The foundation's mission is to keep families together by providing necessary support and legal representation. They work towards early intervention to prevent family separation, supporting families before problems escalate. Family Preservation Foundation also educates communities and professionals on child welfare matters to foster broader understanding and advocacy for parental rights.

History and Impact

Founded by Dwight Mitchell, who experienced firsthand the challenges of the child welfare system, the organization has become a significant voice in advocating for family preservation. FPF has filed lawsuits challenging state laws that allow child removals without sufficient justification, arguing that these practices are unconstitutional and violate due process rights.

Financial Overview

The foundation relies on contributions for its operations. As a nonprofit, it is categorized under human services, specifically family services. Donations are tax-deductible, supporting their legal aid and advocacy efforts.

Beliefs and Objectives

Family Preservation Foundation believes that children should be raised by their biological parents or extended family when safe, advocating for the reallocation of foster care funds towards family preservation services. They emphasize the importance of legal representation for children in court proceedings to ensure their rights are protected.

Legal and Policy Advocacy

FPF supports legislation and amendments that strengthen parental rights, such as proposed constitutional amendments. They argue that current laws allow overly broad discretion in child removals, often without evidence of harm, and seek reforms to address these issues.