(ARA) – In spring, most 17 and 18 year olds are busy with proms, high school graduations, and college applications.  Most of them have their family’s emotional and financial support as they face these milestones.  Unfortunately, youth in foster care encounter several challenges when they approach these events.  For example, many money do not participate in these rites of passage due to lack of money (e.g. for formal attire, transportation and graduation fees).  Also, foster care alumni often share the experience of not having a parent or caregiver attend important school events, especially their graduation.

Photo by Susana Mariscal 

Every year, about 20,000 youth age out the foster care system and many have a hard time coping with the consequences of unstable experiences living in and out of foster homes. For instance, many foster youth prefer not to form bonds with foster families or engage in the family's social activities.  Foster youth often face more emotional, behavioral, developmental, and health challenges than their peers. They need extra supports to overcome them: financial security, stable housing, and health services.  However, youth aging out of foster care often find a different picture: unemployment, lack of jobs, and lack of affordable housing.

National Foster Youth Advisory Council (NFYAC), supported by the Child Welfare League of America and the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative, attempts to help raise awareness and to give a voice to youth in foster care. A solid transition plan and a reliable support network would allow foster youth to become thriving and productive community members.  NFYAC have position statements about essential issues to successfully exit the foster care system.  Youth need and deserve opportunities/ access to:

•Develop an effective transition plan

•Have positive educational experiences

•Committed adults to establish lifelong connections

•Establish a healthy peer support network

•Safe and affordable housing prior to exit 

•Financial services, resources, and supports towards long-term success -- positive housing outcomes

•An advocate-- for support and voice 

Many foster youth do not have the chance of asking their families for help.  They have to make ends meet and face challenges on their own, even if they are at an increased risk of adversity.  It is important to support them in ALL areas of their life, before and during their transition into adulthood.  To help, you can volunteer at a local foster care agency or participate in a mentoring program for youth in foster care. Mentoring a foster youth can help bring hope for a brighter future. 

Courtesy of ARA Content.