Volunteers are needed to serve on the Foster Care Review Board, the State Court Administrative Office of the Michigan Supreme Court reports. Citizens interested in becoming a board member may call (989) 732-0494 for an application. The deadline for receiving applications is Monday, October 20.

The goal is to improve children's foster care programs.

The boards meet one day each month to review a representative sample of cases of children who have been removed from their homes and placed in foster care owing to abuse or neglect. At these reviews, board members interview parents, foster parents, caseworkers, attorneys, and other interested parties who may be involved in planning for the child's care.

The Foster Care Review Boards are comprised of citizens who reflect a broad cross section of their communities. The program is seeking volunteers who have demonstrated leadership in other settings. Minorities and men are especially encouraged to apply. Employees of the Department of Human Services, family court, or private child placement agencies are prohibited by law to serve on Foster Care Review Boards.

Each volunteer who is selected must attend a one-day orientation training in Ann Arbor November 5. This training is a requirement to serve on a board. Also, board members attend yearly training which is held in different locations throughout the state. Expenses for training are reimbursed.