The Kempe Center’s KIDS program provides independent, expert consultation services for highly complex cases involving concerns about child abuse and neglect or child health and well-being. A team of experts from multiple disciplines is selected and assembled based on the unique requirements of each case. Available disciplines include child abuse pediatrics, toxicology (adult substance abuse and infants/children exposed to drugs), child and adolescent psychiatry, psychology, social work, behavioral health, law, ethics, JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion), and others identified as needed. The KIDS consultant panel reviews pertinent case material (when applicable), meets with requesting parties, and produces specific and actionable recommendations based on the questions posed. We address issues regarding child abuse, neglect, child placement, permanency, safety and/or treatment plan recommendations through an equity lens. 

In addition, the program – KIDS PLUS (Permanency, Love, Unity, Stability) – will run through The Kempe Center in partnership with court appointed special advocates agencies and provide free service to Colorado counties. It will identify and develop appropriate Kin* supports for permanent placements and/or relationships and enhance connectedness to communities and cultures for youth whose cases are highly complex and who have remained in the child welfare system without achieving permanency.

*The term “Kin” in program refers to anyone with a “family like” relationship which may or may not be biologically related.