Jane Henderson, a recently retired Lynchburg DSS worker and Tabatha Robertson, a therapist, and several other allies and alumni, have come together to form the Piedmont Region of the VA Chapter. Through a demonstration grant project that was a collaboration between the mental health board and DSS, they ran an Independent Living group,and are able to connect with several alumni to start their group. The Piedmont Region started meeting a few months ago and recently had a successful Christmas gathering of alumni and allies. There was food, fellowship, and fun (a wonderful example of the Connecting part of our mission). Please contact Jane at vachapter@fostercarealumni.org if you live in the Piedmont Area and want to be a part of this wonderful group.

 

Project LIFE is a partnership with the Virginia Department of Social Services and United Methodist Family Services. The goal of the project is to coordinate and enhance the provision of independent living services to youth who are about to transition out of foster care. One of the points of focus for Project LIFE is the continued development of the Virginia Youth Advisory Council (VYAC).

 

The FCAA-VA Chapter is working with Project LIFE to continue to develop opportunity for the VYAC members to stay connected and have an advocacy voice as they transition out of care. Learn more about Project LIFE here. 

 

Ever wondered what it was like have a family reunion or traditional family gathering? For too many alumni, growing up in foster care meant missing out on many of the traditions and privileges that most people find in their families.  We're changing this and claiming the traditional Family Reunion as our own!   See our pictures as we celebrated our 2nd annual Alumni Family Reunion in May 2009!

The Virginia Youth Advisory Council is a network of young people currently in and aging out of foster care who want to help themselves and each other become successful independent adults.  Through group activities, members can also develop skills they will use throughout their lives, including decision making, working as a member of a team, volunteerism, as well as effective communication.