June 2020

Greetings!

From our very own Chaya Milchtein being one of Advocate Magazine's 28 Women of the Year for LGBTQ advocacy to former foster youth Anna being interviewed by the Journal Sentinel on the impact of COVID-19 on young adults-- our teens, youth, and young adults are leading the way. We're also sending a huge congratulations to our Carmen Schools student intern, Alaniss. She's one of the most creative people we know and will study art therapy at the University of Tampa in the fall.

We're so proud of you, Alaniss. We'll miss you! Sue Susan Conwell, JD Executive Director

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth Research has shown that LGBTQ youth are overrepresented in the foster care system. With safe placement and the support of caseworkers, LGBTQ youth in foster care are less likely to run away, become homeless, or face sexual exploitation. We can create supportive environments for all kids, because every child deserves a safe home. We always need volunteers who are strong allies and advocates for kids and youth navigating sexuality, gender identity, and gender expression. If you or someone you know would be a strong advocate for LGBTQ youth, consider becoming a CASA volunteer--more info below. Resources for Supporting Youth and Families: Child Welfare Information Gateway- Supporting LGBTQ Youth: A Guide for Foster Parents Diverse & Resilient- LGBTQ Competency Toolkit National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)- Continuing Education (see below) Engaging Families in Affirming Trauma-Informed Care for LGBTQ Children and Youth   Research has shown that LGBTQ youth who have family support have better outcomes through their youth and into adulthood. This is especially relevant for LGBTQ youth who have experienced trauma and may face ongoing safety concerns related to their identities. This webinar will outline techniques for engaging families in affirming treatment and care of their LGBTQ youth. Practitioners will examine ways to engage in cultural humility and understanding when engaging families and youth in trauma treatment.   Click here to access this free webinar  from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN). You will need to create a free account. NCTSN has many great trainings to choose from! CASA volunteers receive continuing education credit.

Congrats New CASA Volunteers Congratulations to our newest two class of CASA volunteers! We are so excited for these 18 new volunteers trained virtually during the Safer at Home Order. We look forward to the life-changing guidance they will provide to our foster youth.

Next Virtual Training Class Begins July 8th! Do you or someone you know suddenly have extra time at home? Are you looking for ways to stay connected and learning? Do you want to make a difference? Kids Matter has all-virtual training for badly needed volunteer advocates for local abused and neglected kids. Consider signing up today! This Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer training will be just six evening sessions. All training sessions will be held via teleconferencing technology (such as Zoom). You'll need a computer (ideally with a camera) and internet access. The course and all course materials are free. Summer Training Cycle  (virtual training) Wednesday, July 8, 6:00pm to 9:00pm  Wednesday, July 15, 6:00pm to 9:00pm    Wednesday, July 22, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Wednesday, July 29, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Wednesday, August 5, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Applications are now being accepted for a limited number of spaces. Background and reference checks and a personal interview via Zoom are required for all volunteer applicants. If interested, email  volunteer@kidsmatterinc.org  or call 414-344-1220.

Partnering Makes the Difference Strong partnerships between birth parents and foster parents creates a smoother path to reunification when possible. Click here for a list of resources for working together.

For a former foster youth with coronavirus, there's no safety net The challenges of COVID-19 are especially hard on those without family support. 24-year-old former foster youth Anna spoke with the Journal Sentinel about her experience battling the illness and warns that young people are still very much vulnerable to the virus. Take a moment to hear her story:

For a former foster youth affected by coronavirus,... After aging out of foster care, Anna dropped out of college and spent several years homeless. When she was struck by COVID-19 earlier this year, she feared she would end up on the street again. "All of the sudden I couldn't work, couldn't... Read more www.jsonline.com

Thanks Gifford Middle School Thank you to Ms. Staniger's eighth grade enrichment class at Gifford Middle School for working together to collect 100 coloring books for our kids! We loved sending Gifford School alumna and current Kids Matter AmeriCorps Member Jelena to pick up this wonderful donation.

‌ ‌