Young People Who Age Out of Foster Care
Young people who age out of foster care face tough odds. Older youth in foster care are one of the most vulnerable populations in this country. They are less likely to reach a permanent home and may languish in the foster care system for years before aging out, which happens at age 21 in Maryland. Suddenly, these young people are expected to make it on their own as independent adults. Some leave foster care and become homeless on day one. Many never graduate from high school. Most are underemployed, and even later, at age 26, they earn less than half what their peers do, on average. This is unacceptable, and we can change it. Everything is possible when someone cares.
CASA of Baltimore County is committed to ensuring that all older youth are prepared to have the best possible outcomes. We believe high school graduation, living wage employment, a place to live, and a healthy, thriving adulthood are within reach of every youth aging out of foster care, and we know that a caring, consistent adult can make all the difference. We also know that young adults continue to need support as they navigate independence. Youth who age out of foster care without permanency are no exception. They need someone by their side to offer guidance, help them work through challenges, and celebrate their successes. No one should have to figure it all out on their own. Our Fostering Futures program, led by our Youth Engagement Specialist, strives to provide the support and guidance needed for these young people to be successful after foster care.
Youth Engagement Specialist
Vanessa provides support and resources to Volunteers who work with older youth; she facilitates our Fostering Futures training program; she engages with older youth directly; and she also helps to provide resources and information to our young adults who have already aged-out of care. Vanessa also works closely with the DSS Independent Living Coordinator, who provides Independent Living Skills classes and other events/resources aimed at youth age 14 and up.