Child Welfare Advisory Committee (CWAC)

The Child Welfare Advisory Committee (CWAC) is the primary group to advise the Director of the Division of Family Services on child welfare issues. It helps makes sure that programs for children and families are child-centered, family-focused and community-based. These programs include Adoption, Child Protective Services, Family Preservation, Foster Care and Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC). 

This group is the main stakeholder group for the Child and Family Services Review. 

Purpose of the Child Welfare Advisory Committee:

• Give advice on child welfare program, policy, training and practice issues 
• Help create the five-year Child and Family Services Plan and review yearly progress reports and other state plans 
• Support the Virginia's Program Improvement Plan when Virginia does not meet the requirements of the federal Child and Family Services Review 
• Child Welfare Advisory Committee Charter 2015 (PDF)

If interested in learning more about CWAC, please contact Sadie Wilson (sadie.wilson@dss.virginia.gov).

Future Meeting Dates 

2026 CWAC Dates: 4/15/2026, 7/15/2026 and 10/14/2026

2025 Meeting Minutes & Agendas 

• CWAC 4.16.2025 Meeting Materials (PPTX)
• CWAC 4.16.2025 Breakout Room Notes (PDF)
• CWAC 6.12.2025 Meeting Materials (PPTX)
• CWAC 6.12.2025 Breakout Room Notes (PDF)

CWAC Subcommittees 

Permanency:

• CWAC Permanency Subcommittee Charter (PDF) 
• CWAC Permanency Scope Woolard (PDF)