Engaging Youth

What culture do I come from? Where is my community? As youth in foster care begin their identity journeys, questions like these might arise during conversations. When professionals focus on building up youth's confidence, gaining their trust, and following their lead, professionals create a welcoming space for teens to explore their identity. The resources below are meant to be shared with the teens you work with as you engage them in permanency planning.

Spread the Word

Find resources and communications tools to spread the word about National Adoption Month.

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Empowering Youth

Building Sustainable Change With Youth and Young Adults [Video Series]
Capacity Building Center for States

"Listening to Lived Expertise" [Podcast]

Our Identities/Ourselves: Know Your Rights Guide for Young People and Families (PDF - 320 KB)
Center for the Study of Social Policy

A Tool for Youth Engagement and Empowerment
Capacity Building Center for States

The Power of Lived Experience
Youth Engaged 4 Change

Using Your Voice: A Guide for Youth on Participating in Case Planning
Child Welfare Information Gateway

A Youth-Leadership Toolbox Youth (PDF- 416 KB)
Bergan
Youth Move National

Learning From Peers

"Never Give Up: A Complex Trauma Film by Youth for Youth" [Video]
Youth Engaged 4 Change

Perspectives of People Raised in Racially and Culturally Diverse Families
Child Welfare Information Gateway

Youth Peer Support
Youth MOVE National

Youth Perspectives on Foster Care
Child Welfare Information Gateway

Promoting Well-Being

The Importance of Cultural Identity for Foster Youth
Hoyleton Youth and Family Services

Tip Sheet on Responding to Youth and Young Adult Mental Health Needs
Division X Technical Assistance

Using the Protective and Promotive Factors to Support Youth Well-Being: Guide for Youth
Center for the Study of Social Policy

We R Native

Advancing Healthy Outcomes Eight Ways to Promote the Health and Well-Being of LGBTQ+ Youth Involved With Child Welfare Through FFPSA
Center for the Study of Social Policy