Role of Citizen Review Panels (CRPs)

CAPTA Citizen Review Panels

The CAPTA reauthorization of 1996 established citizen review panels as a requirement for all states receiving a CAPTA grant. The purpose of CRP Legislation is to examine the extent to which states are discharging their child protection obligations by examining the policies, procedures and practices of state and local CPS agencies and providing feedback on the effectiveness of the agency's child abuse prevention and treatment strategies in producing the desired child and family outcomes. In addition, the CRP Community is responsible for reviewing state and local CPS agency compliance with the state's CAPTA plan and any other criteria the panel(s) considers important.

CRPs provide a great opportunity for community members to take an active role in Georgia's efforts to protect children from abuse and neglect. Partnering with Georgia DFCS, panel members will identify strategies for child welfare system improvements and thus be an important part of creating a better world for our state's most vulnerable children and families. A Panel can review the state's CAPTA plan, child protection standards, or any topic it considers important to ensure the well-being everyone served by the children welfare system.

CRPs will meet quarterly in their respective district - North Georgia, South Georgia, or Metro Atlanta. 

The CRPs:

• are volunteer members.
• meet quarterly in their respective districts.
• make recommendations to DFCS for statewide improvements in the state’s child welfare system. 

For additional information about Georgia’s CAPTA Citizen Review Panels, please email [email protected].