There are many ways to stay involved, connect with others and use your voice to improve the foster care system.
NYTD stands for National Youth in Transition Database. NYTD is more than just a survey; it’s a national system that helps track how young people with foster care experience are doing over time. NYTD helps make sure youth voices are heard and that better supports are created for future generations.
State Data Snapshots Children’s Bureau – ACF - https://acf.gov/cb/map/nytd-outcomes-services-data-snapshots#VA_26606
In Virginia, if you're 17, 19 or 21, and have been in foster care, you may be asked to take part in a survey that asks about things like school, work, housing and health. The information collected helps states and programs understand what’s working and what needs to improve.
Your responses are important for understanding the needs and experiences of youth and young adults in foster care. They help Virginia improve decisions about policies that affect young people transitioning into adulthood. You may be asked to participate in the NYTD survey at 17, and then again at 19 and 21. You will receive compensation for your participation based on your age range between $25/$50/$100.
If you have questions, contact your local social services department or VDSS (Virginia Department of Social Services) at (804) 726-7944 or va.ilp@dss.virginia.gov.
Project LIFE (Living Independently, Focusing on Empowerment) gives youth in foster care tools to live, learn and work successfully through workshops, leadership opportunities and events across Virginia. It's a place to grow your skills and meet others like you. https://www.vaprojectlife.org/
This guide helps you understand your rights and responsibilities as you become an adult. It’s created to help young adults in foster care avoid legal issues and make smart decisions.
Download booklet here: https://vsb.org/soyoure18/groups/SoYouRe18/Home.aspx
Virginia’s youth advisory board - SPEAKOUT (Strong Positive Educated Advocates Keen On Understanding the Truth – is a group of young people ages 15–27 who have lived experience in foster care. Using their voices to help improve the foster care system in Virginia. By joining, you can connect with others, grow your leadership skills and help make a difference for youth now and in the future.
Foster Club is a national network that supports teens and young adults in foster care. It helps you connect with others, get educated and be inspired to reach your potential.
