Building Bridges to Belonging … is A philosophy which stresses that every child should have a family Is supported by: A forum A promising practice guide An advocacy plan which includes legislative change

Some guiding thoughts “What would a good parent do?” “Every child deserves a forever family” “No relationship should start with an expiry date” Belonging is more than a placement

Some facts The average age of leaving home is between 27+ The mandated age for youth in CAS care to leave family homes is 17 – or by their 18 th birthday Emotionally, youth in care are, on average, about 2 years behind their peers – which means they are 15 when they are forced into independence Ontario graduation rates are about 78%; for youth in care it’s about 47% - at the age of 20.

The Forum In June 2009, OACAS hosted a forum which included: leading research on outcomes for youth AND Ontario CAS experience in implementing services in: Foster care for youth to age 21 Legal custody Subsidized kin care as an option for a permanent family Adoption of older youth Take home … ideas for building bridges for youth to belong to families in all of the above

The “guide” Promising practices Built on the “Looking After Children” foundation Anchored in research and data Developed by CAS experts in Ontario Offers: Clear goals Current knowledge Innovative ideas in Ontario and elsewhere Ideas on which to build Tools and links

Ideas to consider: Consider policies which focus on the most important thing – making sure that every youth has a family: Strive to find a permanent family– ask the youth!* Remember that adoption and legal custody are options for youth* Build connections with at least one positive adult family member/kin Also ensure there is a strong safety net: Where legal parent is not found, consider foster care until 21* Provide health and dental and EAP until 25 (Crown Ward Aftercare)* Support youth voice and networking Youth to youth – peer support is critical to “belonging” Peer groups are most successful when facilitated and supported by adults Focus on positive, life successes Help make the connection to employment Build skills and interests - look for one mentor who shares interest in a hobby or sport Use education advocates to help navigate and get help when needed

Some tools and tips Building Bridges Guide – includes PACT OACAS Crown Ward Aftercare Benefits Plan 18 to 21 … what’s next – Prescott Russell experience Legal custody – the Ottawa experience Eastern Zone Executive Director’s commitment Ruby Slippers Project (California)

Questions …. ??? Thank you