The Rhode Island Youth Advisory Board is a diverse representation of concerned youth whose purpose is to listen, advocate and offer advise to DCYF in order to assist DCYF in shaping and developing programs with the intention of helping youth to have a healthy and successful transition into adulthood.

The Department of Children, Youth and Families Youth Advisory Board is composed of youth 16 to 21 years of age who are in the custody of DCYF and placed out of their home. The Board was established in the Fall of 1997 with the support and encouragement of the Director, Jay Lindgren Jr. It provides an opportunity for youth in care to work in conjunction with the Department, in leadership roles, to present ideas and opinions that promote involvement of youth in program and policy development.

Completed Projects

The Board has been involved in (1) advocating for and testifying in support of legislation to establish funding to assist youth in the DCYF care to attend college. (2) The development of policy regarding the establishment of transitional living and discharge plans as part of the case plan review process. (3) The creation and administering of a survey of youth in care regarding the quality of care.

The Board has finalized a  HANDBOOK for all youth in care which answers questions relating to being in care.   See Frequently Asked Questions for Youth.

Future Activities:

In the future, Board members will be involved in curriculum development and training for staff, foster and adoptive parents to increase awareness and provide a view of the system from the youths’ perspective.

Membership:

Membership on the Board is open to any youth 16 and over, in out-of-home care, who is willing to work toward positive goals and to make a commitment to attend monthly meetings.

Recruitment:

Recruitment is ongoing. Any youth or staff interested in referring a youth can contact us with any questions or concerns.

Application:

Please contact Kat.Keenan@rifpa.org - tel:  (401) 438-3900, at the RI Foster Parents' Association or visit the website www.rifpa.org

Additional Information

A great site for Foster Kids.  Check it out!
Questions? See our Frequently Asked Questions for Youth   including the Children's Bill of Rights