The Department of Human Services and other child welfare agencies'
policies have a direct influence on youth and the programs that
serve them. Many administrators have found it useful to seek and
utilize input from youth and young adults who have been involved
with their programs.
YLAT members began to actively have input into DHS policies when
the Independent Living Coordinator, Hugh Sipowicz, revised the
Extended Care Policy. Hugh met with youth across the state to
solicit their input and to make helpful changes.
- An April 2001 article from
Common Ground describes how YLAT members assisted with
revisions to the Extended Care Policy.
- This is the V9 Application
in PDF format for extended care beyond the age of 18.
Also in 2001, YLAT members met with Karen Westburg, the Bureau
of Child and Family Services Director. In this meeting they expressed
concern about siblings becoming separated far too frequently in
the foster care system. Karen asked YLAT members to compile feedback
that could be used to develop the first ever DHS policy governing
sibling relationships in foster care.
- YLAT began working with Camp
To Belong in an effort to help siblings have a better experience
in Maine's care.
- Other states are developing policies or laws to improve what
siblings experience in foster care.
