APPENDIX A
VOICES YOUTH ENGAGEMENT MODEL & PROCESS OF DEVELOPING THE RECOMMMENDATIONS VOICES’ mission is to empower underserved youth, ages 16–24, by utilizing holistic services throughout their transition from systems of care, while building a loving community and establishing a solid foundation for a healthy future. At the core of VOICES are youth-led programs designed to address the independent living, housing, education, employment and wellness needs of transition age youth. Since 2005, VOICES has provided comprehensive services to over 5,000 young people. VOICES Sonoma has become the hub of services for transitioning foster youth throughout the County. Young leaders have created a lively, welcoming Center where youth are able to engage in leadership development opportunities and access a comprehensive service system that supports their education, employment, housing and wellness needs. In partnership with Sonoma County Family, Youth, and Children’s Services Division and 15 community-based service partners, VOICES has developed a system of collaboration that has resulted in many positive changes for Sonoma County youth, including the establishment of the VOICES Sonoma Center, increased engagement in the Independent Living Program, a coordinated approach to meeting youths’ educational and employment needs and an expansion of multiple housing opportunities for youth. VOICES’ one of a kind Youth Engagement Model focuses on empowering each youth, integrating resources and services, and working with the entire community to address the barriers that young people face as they leave systems of care. VOICES
APPENDIX A
youth are not only recipients of social services, they are active leaders in supporting their peers, guiding the evolving vision of program delivery, training growing numbers of social service agencies to become “youth-friendly,” and advocating for youth voice in the community. The VOICES model is built upon six pillars that result in a unique, highly effective approach to transforming outcomes for transition age youth. Since the project’s conception, VOICES has designed and managed the AB 12 Cohort process in a manner that maintains fidelity to the agency’s commitment to authentic youth engagement. VOICES believes that appropriately and ethically
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