Click on the calendar at right to see upcoming events. 

Check out all the great information we've been posting on our collaborative Facebook page this past month!

•  Have you read the Connecticut Foster Care Manual? FosterAdopt: Foster Care Manual
• So simple, yet effective! Games That Encourage the Habit of Noticing Other's Needs
• New study results regarding group home placements. Although not yet replicated by other studies, this study sees marked differences in outcomes between males and females. When One Size Doesn't Fit All: Differing Outcomes for Foster Children in Group Homes
• Quoted from the "You Gotta Believe" Page: "This is an important article. Even when we celebrate adoption for youth who truly need a family, adoption at any age is ALWAYS preceded by profound loss that must be acknowledged, heard and addressed in whatever way is best for each individual child, youth or adult.
  This is why so much of our work is focused helping youth connect to their families of origin and to help them heal by helping them to integrate the many facets of their history. It is also why it is essential for adoptive parents to listen to and support their children in whatever level of knowledge, re-connection and reunion they need, at whatever pace they need it. At best, adoption is about expanding a child or youth's family...not replacing it." Please don't tell me I was lucky to be adopted.
•  Kudos to these CT foster/adoptive families! Adoption Success Stories in Middletown
• So eloquently stated~ Learn to see reunification through different eyes
• Do you know a teen who may qualify?
  FOSTERCLUB ALL-STARS: The FosterClub All-Star Program provides leadership and service opportunities to young people ages 18-24 who have spent their formative years in foster care. For these young adults, who have beaten the odds and thrived in spite of difficult circumstances, the All-Star internship is an opportunity to communicate their unique perspectives and share their resilient spirits with their younger peers still struggling through foster care. In addition to participating in dozens of youth events across the country over the summer, the FosterClub All-Stars advocate for system improvement and promote public awareness nationally throughout the year.
  If you are an alumni of care, please apply! Be sure to spread this info with folks who may be interested!
  Looking for an awesome summer opportunity? FosterClub is now accepting applications through Feb 20 for the All-Stars internship! 2015 All-Star Application 

What is the Youth Excellence Project?

Youth will be encouraged to remain involved in the program as peer leaders.

• Male youth ages 13-15
• DCF committed
• Currently residing in long-term foster care, congregate care, or an independent living facility in Connecticut
• Permission from legal guardian (DCF) to participate in the California trip

Eligible youth will be selected carefully based on (a) evidence of the youth's interest and enthusiasm in the project, (b) the fit between the youth's needs and what the program has to offer, and (c) evidence that the structure of the program is appropriate given the youth's challenges. Nominations due by January 31st. 

Click here to visit the website. 

2015 Nomination form   **Please note: updated age range is 13-15 years old.

The Youth Excellence Project