Child Welfare in a Changing America – National Policy and Local Impact

Presented By:

CWLA_logo (002)
Child Welfare League of America
Fairfax County (Virginia) Department of Family Services, United States of America
The Six pillars of success from the Rise Up Policy Forum.

The Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) is a powerful coalition of hundreds of private and public agencies that has supported children and families since 1920. CWLA’s expertise, leadership, and innovation on policies and best practices help improve the lives of millions of children across North America.

This session will highlight critical current issues impacting child protection in the United States, and how legislative advocacy and policy development help mitigate negative impact. Presenters will discuss federal policies including financing, immigration, and access to food and health care which impact child safety and well-being.

In addition to discussing the national landscape, the Fairfax County Department of Family Services will offer a local government perspective on impact as it relates to children and families.

Participants will be oriented to the changing policies of the current United States federal administration and how related legislation and executive orders impact vulnerable children and families.

Rise Up Session Date and Time:
August 27, 2026 2:45 pm
Country or Region Focus:
North America
Type of Session:
Rise Up Session
Public Health Pillar Focus:
Policy and Legislation
Congressional Research Service. (2026). Child Welfare Funding in the President’s FY2027 Budget: In Brief.
2026 Legislative Agenda.
CWLA Strategic Plan 2025-2026.
CWLA’s National Blueprint for Excellence in Child Welfare.
Countywide strategic plan. Fairfax County Government.
Fairfax County Economic Mobility Pilot: Summary report.
Advisory Social Services Board Annual Report.
Resource Downloads

Speakers

Linda S. Spears, MSW, President & CEO, Child Welfare League of America

Alycia Blackwell, MSW, JD, Deputy Director, Fairfax County (Virginia) Department of Family Services, United States of America

Session Aims

1. Highlight critical current issues affecting children protection in the United States.

2. Provide guidance on national action plans that anchor child protection in shifting political agendas.

Session Format

Facilitated discussion, live audience surveys, interactive dialogue.