Independent Living

To

WHAT WE DO

Camelot's Independent Living Services (ILS) program provides and young adults (at-risk, in foster care, unaccompanied homeless, runaway, pregnant, justice involved, LGBTQ+, or displays exceptional needs) with opportunities and encouragement that empowers them to achieve their personal goals. Our coaching style and techniques help youth and young adults get to where they want to be in life!

Transition Planning: What To Expect

Youth In Foster Care: Rights & Expectations

Navigating Independent Living A Guide for Young Adults

As young adults transition from adolescence to adulthood, one of the significant milestones they encounter is independent living. This phase marks the beginning of self-reliance, responsibility, and decisionmaking, shaping their journey towards a fulfilling and autonomous life. Here are key insights and tips to navigate the realm of independent living for young adults.

Financial Management:

Effective financial management is fundamental to independent living. Establishing a budget, tracking expenses, and prioritizing needs over wants are crucial skills. Young adults can benefit from financial literacy courses, setting aside savings, and exploring opportunities for additional income through part-time work or freelance gigs.

Housing Choices:

Choosing suitable housing is a pivotal decision. Factors such as location, affordability, safety, and amenities play a vital role. Options range from renting an apartment, sharing accommodations with roommates, or exploring co-living spaces tailored for young adults. Conducting thorough research and considering long-term goals can guide this choice.

Life Skills Development:

Developing essential life skills enhances confidence and competence in independent living. These skills encompass cooking nutritious meals, managing household chores, practicing self-care, and nurturing interpersonal relationships. Seeking mentorship or enrolling in workshops can further hone these abilities.

Educational and Career Advancement:

Continuing education or pursuing career goals is integral to long-term success. Young adults can explore higher education opportunities, vocational training, internships, or apprenticeships aligned with their interests and aspirations. Networking, building a professional portfolio, and staying updated with industry trends are valuable strategies.

Health and Well-being:

Prioritizing physical and mental well-being is paramount. Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and seeking medical care when needed contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Cultivating coping mechanisms for stress, practicing mindfulness, and fostering social connections foster emotional resilience.

Legal and Civic Responsibilities:

Understanding legal rights and responsibilities is essential. This includes knowledge of tenancy agreements, financial contracts, and legal obligations as a citizen. Young adults can familiarize themselves with local laws, seek legal advice if necessary, and actively participate in civic engagement through voting or community initiatives.

Social Support Networks:

Building a robust support network is invaluable. This includes family, friends, mentors, and community resources. Seeking guidance, sharing experiences, and collaborating with peers create a supportive

environment conducive to personal growth and development.

In conclusion, independent living for young adults is a transformative journey characterized by selfdiscovery, responsibility, and empowerment. By mastering financial management, housing choices, life skills, educational and career advancement, health and well-being, legal awareness, and social connections, young adults can navigate this phase with confidence and resilience, laying a strong foundation for a fulfilling and successful future.

Article By Vital Guidance

The prestigious Family Fellowship Scholarship is now accepting applications! The $60,000 scholarship program is specifically designed to aid current and former foster youth throughout their college journey by offering up to five years of academic assistance and familylike emotional support. Are you attending college in pursuit of a bachelor's degree? Apply today!:

The American Industries Trade Scholarship provides up to $10,000 to support foster youth pursuing a trade degree or certification. This innovative program supports individuals with tuition costs, housing, and academic materials including tools and equipment, and provides a sense of community among our young professionals. Learn more about our trade scholarship and apply now!:

The Vet Tech Scholarship provides up to $24,000 to tackle the financial roadblocks that often come with pursuing a veterinary technician certification, licensure, or vocational degree. Beyond financial support, scholarship recipients are enriched by personal and professional mentoring, as well as comprehensive career development opportunities:

Exploring the Benefits of Learning a Trade vs. Going to College

In today's rapidly evolving job market, individuals often face a crucial decision: whether to pursue a trade or attend college. Both paths offer unique advantages and opportunities for personal and professional growth. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits of learning a trade and going to college to help individuals make informed decisions about their future.

Learning a Trade: Practical Skills for a Rewarding Career

1. Faster Entry into the Workforce: One of the primary advantages of learning a trade is the speed at which individuals can enter the workforce. Trade programs typically have shorter durations compared to traditional four-year college degrees, allowing individuals to start earning and gaining valuable experience sooner.

2. Hands-On Learning Experience: Trade programs often emphasize hands-on learning, providing students with practical skills that are directly applicable to their chosen field. This hands-on experience can lead to a smoother transition into the workforce and a more comprehensive understanding of industry practices.

3. High Demand and Job Security: Many trade professions are in high demand, such as electricians, plumbers, welders, and HVAC technicians. As these industries continue to grow, skilled trade workers can enjoy excellent job security and opportunities for advancement.

4. Competitive Salaries: Contrary to common misconceptions, trade professions can offer competitive salaries, especially for those with

specialized skills and certifications. Skilled tradespeople often have the potential to earn a comfortable income and enjoy benefits such as job stability and steady employment.

5. Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Learning a trade can also open doors to entrepreneurial ventures. Many tradespeople choose to start their own businesses, providing services to clients or working as independent contractors, allowing for greater flexibility and control over their careers.

Going to College: Broadening Horizons and Career Paths

1. In-Depth Knowledge and Critical Thinking:

College education provides students with a comprehensive understanding of their chosen field, along with opportunities to develop critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills. This depth of knowledge can be beneficial for pursuing careers in various industries and roles.

2. Networking and Professional Connections:

Colleges offer valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with peers, professors, and industry professionals. These connections can lead to internships, job opportunities, and mentorship, helping students kickstart their careers and build a professional network.

3. Career Flexibility and Advancement: A college degree can provide individuals with greater career flexibility and opportunities for advancement. Many professions require a bachelor's degree or higher for entry-level positions and offer pathways for continued growth and specialization through advanced degrees or certifications.

4. Personal Development and Lifelong Learning:

College education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's also about personal development and lifelong learning. Students gain valuable life skills, such as time management, communication, and teamwork, preparing them for success in both their careers and personal lives.

5. Higher Earning Potential: Statistically, individuals with college degrees tend to have higher earning potential over their careers compared to those with only a high school diploma or trade certification. A college education can lead to access to higherpaying jobs, promotions, and increased job stability.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Path for Your Future

Ultimately, the decision between learning a trade or going to college depends on individual goals, interests, and career aspirations. Both paths offer unique advantages and opportunities for personal and professional growth. It's essential for individuals to research and consider their options carefully, taking into account factors such as job market

Demand, personal strengths, financial considerations, and long-term career goals. By making an informed decision, individuals can embark on a path that aligns with their passions and sets them up for success in the ever-evolving global economy.

Article by Vital Guidance

Transition Planning: What To Expect

What is Transition Planning?

Transition planning is simply an intentional conversation about your plan for the future. The My Pathway to Success Plan form, also referred to as a Transition Plan, is the written document you make with your team. You will meet with your caseworker or independent living specialist on a regular basis to go over the My Pathway to Success Plan form while you are in an open dependency case or enrolled in a post 18 independent living program.

The plan captures your goals, what you need to accomplish them, and plans you and your team identify to make it happen.

You will receive a copy of this form after each transition planning meeting. The plan is important because it contains all the information to assist in your journey of achieving independence. You can keep it with you to remember the goals and your benefits.

What Services May Be Available?

Depending on your eligibility, benefits may include free college at any state university, college, technical, or vocational school until age 28, free access to a driver's education program through Keys to Independence, as well as help getting and paying for your driver's license. All youth who age out of legal custody also receive free healthcare through Medicaid until age 26. You may also ask about access to free or reduced cost housing, depending on availability in your area and other community supports you may need.

VISION STATEMENT

This section is an opportunity for you to share about your future life goals Example: I would like to get a degree in business and own a food truck or I would like to be a Disney performer.

STRENGTHS AND IMPROVEMENT AREA

This section is to help identify what you excel in and what goals you have already accomplished You will also talk about barriers or obstacles that might be in your way. What is stopping you from getting where you want to be? Example: My strengths include budgeting and task management. My areas of improvement are saving money and cooking

SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM GOALS

This section is to help set up short-term and long-term goals. Short-term goals are immediate next steps you and your transition team can take to get you closer to where you want to be. Longterm goals are broader ambitions that you plan to accomplish in the next 2-5 years. Example: My short-term goals are to get a part-time job, obtain a driver's license, develop better study habits and improve time management My long-term goals are to graduate college, become a physical therapist, visit another country, purchase a vehicle, improve relationships with family members, and become financially self-sufficient.

HOUSING

This section is about your potential housing options and aspirations. You should also talk about potential benefits like a voucher or homeless wavier. Example: I want to stay in an apartment, stay in my current placement, or go into a dorm.

HEALTHCARE

This section is about Medicaid and its various services, including medical and therapeutic. You can discuss your next appointment and medical needs Example: I have an eye doctor appointment on Jan 25th, or I need transportation to mv dentist appointment.

When Does Transition Planning Start?

Your transition planning will begin at age 16 and start with introducing the independent living programs Extended Foster Care (EFC), Post Secondary Education Services and Supports (PESS), and Aftercare These programs are explained in the last three pages of the My Pathway to Success Plan form Once you transition out of foster care at 18, you will receive a variety of important documents, including your birth certificate, Social Security card, health insurance card, and driver's license or other state-issued identification card

What Happens After I Complete My Transition Plan?

Prior to the signature page, there is a threepage overview of Independent Living programs, including the specific benefits of each program, the advantages and disadvantages of participation in each program, and the financial value of each program The signature page is where you sign the document indicating that you've discussed each area of the plan with the community-based care lead agency representative, understand how services and benefits would meet your individual needs, and understand how these services would assist you in accomplishing future plans

Still Need Help?

CALLAN OCC HOPE NAVIGATOR FOR MORE INFO

850-300-HOPE (850-300-4673)

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This section discusses your educational goals for the future. Education comes in many forms but is not a requirement after the age of 18 Example: I want to have an SAT/ACT tutor, or I want to graduate high school and go to college (trade school, community college, or university), or I need help filling out my tuition waiver, FAFSA, PELL grant, or scholarship

TRANSPORTATION

This section is about how you get to and from your job, school or social gatherings The discussion can include personal transportation like a car, bus routes, and ride sharing options. Example: I need to take the bus to work Monday-Friday and start saving for a car

KEYS TO INDEPENDENCE EMPLOYMENT

This section highlights the importance of obtaining a driver's license, the services that Keys to Independence offers to make that happen, and eligibility. Keys can assist with obtaining learner's permit, Driver's License, State Identification Card, driving classes and car insurance reimbursement Example: I need a car to take my driver's test, or I need help paying for car insurance.

This section is where you will discuss your career goals You may decide to work during school or go straight into the workforce. This is the time to think about what type of work would make you happy and achieve your financial goals. Example: I want to remain with my current employer, or I want to seek better employment, and work towards my career goals

MENTORS AND POSITIVE CONNECTIONS

This section is used to identify people who can support you through your journey to independence and why is it important to maintain meaningful connections. Example: I have a mentor, John Smith, or I want to have more positive adult connections.

LEGAL BARRIERS

This section is a continuation of any previous legal barriers and how they will affect you after you turn 18 Example: I have current charges, or a pending legal status/court order requirement, I need to get in contact with my lawyer

MY FINANCIAL PLAN

This section helps begin the conversation on money management and why that is important. This will also include information on Master Trust, Supplemental Security Income accounts and allowance Example: I need more assistance in setting up a bank account, or I need help obtaining my first credit card.

*more info in the PESS Section*

What's Different for those in the PESS Program?

The only major difference for youth and young adults in PESS is the required financial plan every 6 months. In this plan you will fill out a monthly budget based on your income and expenses. Following the budget, the facilitator will assess financial literacy, executive functioning, self -regulation and determine whether you will be able manage your monthly stipend of $1,720 on your own or identify supports you may need. This is also a time to discuss plans for self-sufficiency once the stipend eligibility ends.

BUDGET

Your budget will include your monthly expenses and income while participating in the PESS program such as rent, utilities, childcare, car payment, etc. After creating this budget, you will determine if your monthly income covers all the expenses.

FINANCIAL LITERACY

To assess financial literacy, you will have to show that you can budget your income to cover your expenses. Your case manager will use your mock budget to determine financial literacy. If your income does not cover expenses, your case manager will discuss supports needed for a balanced budget and increased financial literacy skills with you.

EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING

To assess executive functioning, your case manager will determine if you can manage your own finances. This requires confirming you have skills including focusing, multi-tasking, and remembering instructions.

SELF-REGULATION

To assess self-regulation, your case manager will determine if you are able to understand and manage your behavior. This requires confirming you have skills including goal setting, self-monitoring, and self-instruction.

The Power of Relationships

Exploring the Benefits of Developing Meaningful Connections

In a world driven by technology and rapid changes, the importance of developing meaningful relationships cannot be overstated. Whether it's personal connections with friends and family or professional relationships in the workplace, cultivating strong bonds with others brings numerous benefits that contribute to our well-being and success. In this article, we'll explore some of the key advantages of investing time and effort into building and nurturing relationships.

Emotional Support: One of the most significant benefits of developing relationships is the emotional support they provide. Having a network of people who care about us and with whom we can share our joys, sorrows, and challenges can significantly improve our mental and emotional well-being. Knowing that we have someone to turn to during difficult times can provide comfort and strength.

Increased Happiness: Meaningful relationships contribute to our overall happiness and life satisfaction. When we spend time with people we

care about and who care about us, we experience positive emotions such as joy, love, and belonging. These positive interactions can enhance our mood and outlook on life, leading to greater happiness.

Improved Mental Health: Studies have shown that strong social connections are associated with better mental health outcomes. People with supportive relationships tend to have lower rates of anxiety, depression, and stress. Social interaction stimulates our brains, improves cognitive function, and can even help prevent cognitive decline as we age.

Enhanced Well-Being: Developing relationships is not only beneficial for our emotional and mental health but also for our physical well-being. Research has found that individuals with strong social ties tend to have lower rates of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease and hypertension. The social support provided by meaningful relationships can boost our immune system and promote overall health.

building relationships is essential for career advancement and success. Networking with colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and insights. Strong professional relationships also foster a positive work environment, leading to higher job satisfaction and productivity.

Increased Resilience: Strong relationships contribute to our resilience in facing life's challenges. When we have a support system in place, we are better equipped to navigate difficult circumstances and bounce back from setbacks. Knowing that we have people who believe in us and are there to offer encouragement and assistance can give us the strength to persevere.

Personal Growth: Relationships provide opportunities for personal growth and development. Through interactions with others, we learn valuable communication skills, empathy, and

emotional intelligence. We gain new perspectives, expand our horizons, and become more adaptable and understanding individuals.

Longevity: Research suggests that maintaining strong social connections can contribute to a longer and healthier life. People with robust social support networks tend to live longer than those who are socially isolated. Meaningful relationships provide a sense of purpose and belonging, which are vital aspects of a fulfilling life.

In conclusion, developing and nurturing relationships offers a multitude of benefits that positively impact our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Whether in our personal lives or professional endeavors, investing in meaningful connections enriches our lives and contributes to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling existence.

Article By Vital Guidance

RIGHTS AND EXPECTATIONS

When Should I Get this Brochure?

When you come into foster care, you can expect that your case manager will provide you with a copy of this Youth in Foster Care Rights and Expectations brochure and explain it to you You can ask questions so that you can better understand what is happening After any placement change or every six months, whichever comes first, you will be reminded about and explained these rights, provided with the document, and able to share any concerns or questions

Where Do these Rights Come From?

These rights come from many different sources. Some of the rights come from the United States Constitution, others from the Florida Constitution. Florida statutes (laws) and federal statutes also outline and direct the expectations and services that should be provided. You have the right to enjoy the same rights established in the Constitutions of the United States and Florida as every other person in the state and country You also have the right to be given the opportunity to participate in developing your case plan, and that the case plan includes your rights to education, health, visitation, court participation, and safety

Where Do the Expectations Come From?

The expectations included in this brochure describe what you can expect from the Department of Children and Families and the case management agency while you are in foster care.

YOU HAVE THE RIGHT...

Education

✓ To receive an education that meets your individual needs

✓ To have access to developmentally appropriate activities and other resources that will help with your educational needs

✓ To have your case plan include your education records, including your most recent school information, grade level, school records, and any other relevant educational record

✓ To have these records provided to you and your placement at the time of each new placement

✓ To ensure you have educational stability, including making sure your school is close to where you are currently living

✓ To be able to stay at your original school even during placement changes, if it's possible If that can't happen, you will be provided immediate and appropriate enrollment in a new school (Every Student Succeeds Act}

Health

✓ To receive healthcare regularly (includes, but not limited to, medical, dental, and immunizations} and to understand the reason behind the healthcare decision

✓ Your case plan should include your health and/or mental health records, including the contact information for your doctors, your shots and medications records, and any other relevant health information

✓ To have these health records provided to you and your placement at the time of each new placement

✓ To receive Medicaid (up to age 26), as long as you meet eligibility criteria

Visitation (Based On Appropriate & Your Best Interest As Determined By Judge/Court)

✓ To be able to visit your parents within three days of coming into care. The judge/court determines your best interest.

✓ To be able to visit your siblings if you have been separated from them, if it’s appropriate and in your best interest

✓ If you can’t visit your siblings, to have continued efforts to help you stay in contact with them

✓ To have continued efforts to be in the same placement as your siblings

✓ To have all visitation arrangements documented in your case plan

Court Participation

✓ To be appointed an attorney ad litem if there are special circumstances in your case, or if a judge decides you need one

✓ To go to court and talk to the judge about decisions being made about your case, but know you may be asked by the judge to leave for certain parts of the hearing if it is not in your best interest to remain

✓ If you are not present at a hearing, the judge will determine if it is important for you to be there, and, if so, you will be given the opportunity to be at the hearing

Planning

✓ Beginning at age 13, to start receiving additional support to help you develop skills to help you after you turn 18

✓ If you age out of care at 18, to receive a copy of your birth certificate, Social Security card, health insurance information, copy of medical and education records, and a driver's license or other state-issued identification card

✓ Beginning at age 17, to have written confirmation given to the judge that you have received information on the Post Secondary Educations Services and Support. Extended Foster Care, and Aftercare programs, and how to apply for public assistance (if needed}, a clear understanding of where you will be living when you turn 18, a process for accessing your case file, and a letter for the dates in which you were in care

YOU CAN EXPECT...

To be informed with verbal and written instructions about your rights on how to identify and report abuse, abandonment, or neglect.

Safety

General

✓ To be provided with care, safety, and protection from physical and mental abuse, neglect, and abandonment

✓ To live in an environment that supports your development

✓ To be treated with respect

✓ To not be discriminated against, or denied placement or services, based on your race, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic

The Assistance of Your Case Manager

✓ To have regular contact with your case manager by phone and in person

✓ To meet with your case manager every month and in private, if you want

✓ For your case manager to meet with your caregiver in person and see the place you live at every month

✓ To get your case manager's phone number and be able to ask for that information if you lose it

✓ To be able to call your case manager with any questions and get answers within a reasonable amount of time

✓ To be told if you get a new case manager and to be provided their phone number

Safety Plan

✓ To participate in writing your safety plan, if age-appropriate, and be explained the plan and what's in place to help keep you and others safe

Be Heard in Court and at Meetings

✓ To be told about court dates and asked and encouraged to attend all hearings

✓ To be able to ask that court not be scheduled during your school schedule and at a time that you can attend

✓ To be provided transportation to court and then back to school, if during school hours

✓ To be assigned a Guardian ad Litem and be able to contact them as needed

✓ To be assigned an attorney to represent you under specific circumstances

Trained Staff

✓ To be provided support and services by trained staff that care about you and who can help you out

Health

Services

✓ To be a part of health planning if you take psychotropic medication and be able to express concerns or ask any questions

Case Planning

✓ To have regular contact with your case manager by phone and in person

✓ To have a case plan that addresses your needs

✓ To have the plan and all its services explained to you in a way you understand

✓ To have a plan that respects your race and culture, religion, and other identities

✓ To be able to give your opinion about anything in the plan you do not like

Records-Keeping

✓ To have a case file that is complete, accurate, and kept up-to-date

✓ To have a case plan that documents your health, education, and visitation arrangements

✓ That you, your caregiver, and your attorney (if assigned one) can review and receive a copy of your records for free

✓ For your photograph and fingerprints to be taken when you come into foster care, kept in your file, and explained why and how they will be used

✓ For your birth certificate and health insurance information to be kept in your file and provided to you when you need it

✓ To be able to request your records and have that information be kept secure through the age of 30

✓ At age 17 1/2, you can request to receive case file documents, and at age 18, you will receive all documents in your case file

✓ Counseling/Therapy

✓ To be able to go to therapy to help you better understand your thoughts and feelings about past experiences and what is currently happening in your life

✓ To have a therapist or request a therapist, who is open and can understand your needs

✓ To be able to talk to your case manager to ask for a therapist

✓ For therapy to be helpful and beneficial to you

Government Benefits

✓ That your case manager will help you apply for all state and federal benefit programs that you are eligible for and need, without delay (including Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, disability benefits, medical and other programs)

✓ If applicable, you can talk with your case manager about other benefits you could receive based on your parents' status

Living Situation

Brothers & Sisters (Siblings)

✓ To be living in the same home with your brothers and sisters, or

✓ or If it is not possible to live with them, to be able to talk to your siblings at least once a week unless the judge says you cannot, and, if so, to be told why this is not possible

✓ To be able to tell your judge if visitation and contact is not happening

✓ To not have sibling visits used as a punishment or reward for behavior

Moving

✓ To remain in the same home without being moved to another placement, unless your case manager explains to why it is necessary for you to move and helps you get the services and things you need to be comfortable during the move and in your new placement

✓ To receive information about your next placement

✓ To be explained why you may be moving and have the opportunity to speak with individuals in your current placement

People Who Know You

✓ To live in a home in which the caregiver knows and understands your personal history and needs

✓ To be able to keep talking to important individuals in your life so long as your case manager determines it is in your best interest

✓ That efforts will take place to identify any relatives or non-relatives you may live with as options

Placements

✓ To be in a safe placement that meets your needs, where you are not abused, neglected, or maltreated by anyone in the

✓ To have every effort made to place you with a relative or non-relative before placing you in a foster or group home

Basic Needs

✓ To be provided with personal hygiene items, school supplies, clothing, and other necessities from your caregiver and not be expected to use your own money on these necessities

✓ To be provided with age-appropriate items needed based on your preference/choice

✓ To be provided with hygiene and care products that fit your cultural and specific needs

✓ To be provided with healthy and nutritious food that respects your religious/cultural/dietary needs

✓ To not have food used as punishment, a form of behavior control, contingent upon completion of chores, etc

✓ To be able to have your own property and a safe place to keep it

Visiting Your Parents or Legal Caregivers

✓ To have at least one visit each month with your parents or legal caregivers, unless the judge says you· cannot visit with them

✓ If you were sexually abused, the court must hold a hearing before allowing the person accused of abusing you to visit with you

✓ To be able to talk to your case manager, attorney, or judge about whether you want to visit your parents or legal caregivers

Reunification Case Plan

✓ To have your case plan help you to be reunified (put back) with your parents, family, or caregivers as soon as it is safe to do so and as soon as the judge allows you to, if possible

✓ To understand what is happening with your case plan and why it is safe or not safe to return home

Permanent Home and Family

✓ To be provided every effort to find a permanent home and family if reunification is not possible

General

✓ To go to the school that is best for you to attend, and have the fewest disruptions in school as possible

✓ To have a referral to an educational evaluation team if you are not making progress in school

✓ To get special education services, if needed

Education

✓ To have your school records shared with the department to make sure the department knows you are attending and making progress in school

✓ To have a quiet place to do homework

✓ To participate in school activities

✓ stay at school after hours, and, if needed, receive a tutor to help you in classes you may be struggling in

✓ To have someone advocate for your educational needs

Activities

Normalcy

✓ To have the opportunity to participate in activities you want to do, such as extracurricular, enrichment, and social activities, so long as they are age-appropriate and based on your emotional and developmental readiness

✓ To participate in activities that provide life experiences and opportunities that will help you become independent when you become an adult

✓ To be given rides to these activities

Money

✓ That your cash allowance will not be tied to your behavior or completion of chores, or withheld as a punishment

✓ To receive an allowance that is spent how you choose

✓ To not have to spend your allowance on basic needs, as those should already be provided by your caregiver

✓ To know that if you have a master trust, to know what it is, how much is in it, what it is spent on, and what the request process is for you to use the money for various activities

Foster Youth Organizations

✓ Communicate with other youth in foster care for the purpose of organizing as a group to advocate for better services and living conditions

✓ Work toward improvements in the child welfare system and provide support for one another

Transitional Services for Youth 13 and Older

✓ To be given and explained information on Extended Foster Care1, Postsecondary Education Services and Support, and Aftercare by your case manager

✓ To receive support from your case manager on how to reach your educational, career, and independence goals

✓ To get information that you may qualify for a tuition exception and that the tuition exception is free tuition to colleges, universities, and vocational programs through age 28

At Age 15 and if Eligible

✓ To participate in the Keys to Independence program, which includes receiving assistance to obtain your driver’s permit and license, participate in driver’s education, and get car insurance

✓ To understand how to enroll in other vocational programs, if desired

✓ To understand how to get and when to apply for Medicaid

At Age 16

✓ To participate in making your My Pathways to Success Plan

✓ To participate in financial literacy classes

✓ At age 17, to be able to open your own bank account

✓ To work if your job does not interfere with your schoolwork

✓ To receive a monthly allowance, based on a needs assessment if you are enrolled in Extended Foster Care and, when you are between 18 and 21 years old, to pay for things like childcare expenses, clothing, extracurricular activities, internet service, personal items, recreational activities, nonessential transportation, savings, telephone, and car expense

What the Children’s Ombudsman Can Do

✓ Listen and be a voice for children and youth

850-717-4505

kidsfla@myflfamilies.com

1-844-KIDS-FLA (1-844-543-7352)

✓ Take complaints about placement, care, or services from youth without youth fearing retribution for the complaints

✓ Serve as a resource to identify and explain relevant policies or procedures

What the Children’s Ombudsman Cannot Do

✓ Respond to emergencies or investigate allegations of abuse or neglect

✓ Investigate, challenge, or overturn court-ordered decisions or provide legal advice

✓ Investigate complaints about a Guardian ad Litem

You have the right to be able to contact your case manager or the Florida Children’s Ombudsman regarding violations of rights, to speak to the ombudsman confidentially, and to be free from threats or punishment for making complaints.

If you’re a youth or young adult in Florida’s child welfare system, we know that you’ve likely been through a lot. Because of this, we want to make sure that you’re in a place –physically, emotionally, and spiritually–where you can recover, grow, and feel the love that you deserve. If for any reason you aren’t in that place, please contact your case manager or the Children’s Ombudsman.

The Children’s Ombudsman will protect the confidentiality of your identity to the extent allowed under the law. Additionally, the Children’s Ombudsman will let you know that your identity may be revealed by the Ombudsman if deemed necessary to make sure you’re safe.

The Office of Continuing Care (OCC), part of Hope Florida - A Pathway to Prosperity, offers free one-on-one help for young people who are about to or have recently transitioned out of foster care, aiming to make the leap into adulthood a positive experience.

The OCC provides the following services:

✓ Connects you to existing resources in your area to help you thrive as an independent young adult

✓ Guides you in accessing special services available to former foster youth

✓ Gives you a support system to help you with the next steps on your path to adulthood

1 https://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/independent-living/youth-young-adults.shtml

The Department of Children and Families recognizes that the transition into adulthood can be tough for young people. For current and former foster youth, it can be even more difficult without an existing support system.

The Office of Continuing Care, part of Hope Florida - A Pathway to Prosperity, offers free one-onone help for young people who are about to or have recently transitioned out of foster care, aiming to make the leap into adulthood a positive experience.

If you are between the ages of 18 and 26 and you have (or will) age out of foster care in Florida (including extended foster care}, give us a call! The Office of Continuing Care, part of Hope Florida -A Pathway to Prosperity, provides the following services:

► Connects you to existing resources in your area to help you thrive as an independent young adult

► Guides you in accessing special services available to former foster youth

► Gives you a support system to help you with the next steps on your path to adulthood

When you call the Hope Line, you'll speak with a Care Navigator who will walk with you on the path to independence.