1. Filling The Gaps In Child And Youth Care Leadership Okpara Rice, Starr Columbus Terence Toone, Starr Columbus

2. is there gap in the first place? Do you and your organization promote the advancement of youth specialist? Do you really walk the walk? How do we attract, retain and promote passionate youth leaders? How do we convince others to invest their careers in this topsy turvey field ?

3.  Allows growth and experience to remain in an organization  Keeping the “brain drain” from happening in our field  Building a foundation in our field for years to come, the next generation of leaders  Economically makes sense  Morale

4.  Take an honest look at your organizational structure….are you promoting from within?  Assess how you identify talent  Ensure there are avenues for training, internally and externally  Look at your local job qualifications, work with local universities to create avenues for continued educational advancement

5.  Introduce the dark side….Provide open avenues for discussion on business development/finance  Provide real opportunities for mentorship, internally and externally  Provide opportunities for shadowing and open sharing  Work with other local agencies and organizations to create a learning community for those identified as potential leaders

6.  Utilize workgroups and shared decision making whenever possible  Continue to advocate for our field, advocate for higher wages and for internal promotion!  Do an honest internal assessment, set goals for your program/organization

7. Invest!!!! Education/Training, Access and Mentorship is critical