Competency 5

Engage in Policy Practice

Behaviors:
Identify social policy at the local, state, and

federal level that impacts well-being,

service delivery, and access to social
services.
Assess how social welfare and economic
policies impact the delivery of and access
to social services.
Apply critical thinking to analyze,
formulate, and advocate for policies that
advance human rights and social,
economic, and environmental justice.

GAL Application
GALS works to familiarize themselves with

state law that serves foster children and

their families.
Foster Care Family Act provides greater

leeway for Foster Parents in determining

appropriate activities and granting
permission for overnight trips. This law is
very helpful to both children and their
caregivers.

GAL Application Continued

Cumberland County is a large county with

both urban and rural environments, GALS

must remain aware of how these different
environments impact their clients.
GALS also strive to meet the needs of their
clients. They take copious notes which
allows them to spot reoccurring needs and
issues for the courts attention.