Voices for Children of Broward County Launches New Court-Based Program

Voices for Children of Broward County (Voices), in collaboration with the 17th Judicial Circuit, has launched a new court-based program designed to provide real-time support to children and families involved in the juvenile dependency and delinquency systems. The program, created in collaboration with the Broward County 17th Judicial Circuit’s Court Administration, marks a milestone during Voices’ 15th anniversary year and expands its mission to ensure that every child and young adult in Broward County who has experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment has access to essential resources and programs that promote long-term stability and well-being. This initiative wouldn’t have been possible without the invaluable support of several judges, the trial court administrator, the deputy trial court administrator, and court administration staff who helped make it a reality.

A Voices Program Manager is now embedded in the Broward County Juvenile Problem Solving Courts and Shelter Hearings to provide real-time support to children and families engaged in the juvenile dependency and delinquency systems. This unique program connects children and caregivers to immediate resources and support, such as emergency and stabilization assistance (clothing, food, transportation, and basic needs), immediate resource linkage (mental health, housing, and educational referrals), and connections to community-based services and care coordination, and ongoing follow-up and support outside the courtroom, while also helping the court streamline case progress and remove barriers to family stability. Voices bridges critical service gaps and provides a safety net for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment.

The Problem-Solving Courts are designed to address the underlying causes of behaviors and barriers that impact children and families involved in both the dependency and delinquency systems. These courts focus on providing a holistic, supportive approach to help families achieve stability and long-term success.

With this new program, Voices will have a new community-based presence. The Program Manager will be available during Juvenile Problem-Solving Courts and Shelter Hearings and maintain regular availability throughout the week, while also working within the community to ensure continuity of care and ongoing support for families. Families engaged through the Juvenile Problem-Solving Courts will also have access to additional Voices programs, including Dream BIG Days and Hope Haven, which provide enrichment opportunities and essential resources that strengthen family stability. As a testament to the Collaborative Model, the program is intended to bridge the gap between the courtroom and the community, creating stronger coordination among court staff, families, and service providers to help children thrive and families succeed.

“It’s an honor to work with Broward County’s 17th Judicial Circuit’s Juvenile Problem-Solving Courts and Shelter Hearings and be embedded in the courtroom to provide real-time support to children and families engaged in the juvenile dependency and delinquency systems,” said Voices President and CEO Erica Herman. “This program is a testament to our mission and the positive impact we’re making in the community and wouldn’t be possible without the support of several judges and court administration staff who were instrumental in helping to get this off the ground. Embedding a Voices Program Manager directly in the courtroom marks a transformative step in how we support vulnerable children and families in Broward County. By being present where critical decisions are made, we can provide real-time resources, advocacy, and stability to those who need it most, ensuring that every child rises with strength, dignity, and hope.”

Additionally, on National Adoption Day, Saturday, Nov. 22, Voices collaborated with the 17th Judicial Circuit and the National Adoption Day committee to support the planning and execution of this annual event. National Adoption Day is a nationwide celebration that marks the legal finalization of adoptions for children in foster care. It is a moment that brings stability, joy, and a sense of belonging to families. Voices worked alongside court staff and volunteers to enhance the jury room and each judge’s courtroom with special touches that helped create a celebratory and welcoming atmosphere for children and families.

From welcome signage and banners to small gifts and family centered details, Voices worked with partners to help ensure the day feels memorable and meaningful for every participant. Many of the families who participated in National Adoption Day also receive support from Voices’ ongoing programs, reinforcing its commitment to wraparound care before, during, and after adoption.