The state agencies jointly perform an assessment of need and capacity indicators by county. Counties that are identified with the greatest need and capacity are invited to develop a Community Partnership and to enter into an agreement with the state agencies to improve six core results. The state agencies have minimum criteria for sites. Community Partnerships may add additional criteria. Communities and state agencies agree together on sites for designation.
State agencies allocate funds through a funding formula.
Nearly 40,000 children. However, Caring Communities serves the entire family rather than the child only. Many activities serve entire neighborhoods. An independent evaluation protocol is in place. The state agencies and communities have agreed to 18 benchmarks.