- What is this website?
This website is FOR foster youth, BY foster youth.
- Who is this website for?
This website is for foster youth and their family, case managers, GAL’s, foster parents, mentors, and other advocates of foster youth. A lot of what we talk about is for youth who are aging out of foster care, but we hope everyone will find something that’s useful!
- What is the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative?
The Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative is a major national effort to improve outcomes for youth as they age out of the system at age 18. Vanderbilt has a grant from this organization to serve the Davidson County and Mid-Cumberland region in Tennessee. For more information, check out the national website.
- What is post-custody or voluntary custody?
This is assistance you can get from DCS once you turn 18 to help with educational or training costs. See link
- What or who is Chafee?
The John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Act doubled the amount of independent living funds for youth transitioning out of foster care in 1999. See “How Can I Afford to Go to College” for more information.
- What is an ETV? (Hint: not entertainment television)
ETV stands for Education and Training Voucher. This program is an extension of the Chafee Act and includes up to $5,000 per year of educational funding for youth up to age 23. Contact the Office of Independent Living: 253-0029 to see if you qualify. Also see “How Can I Afford to Go to College” for more information.
- Why should I apply for TennCare at age 18?
Right now, if you don’t apply for TennCare as you are turning 18, you will lose your coverage. Talk to your case manager for assistance with filling out the forms.
- Who do I call if I don’t understand or can’t reach my DCS worker?
You can call your case manager’s supervisor, known as a Team Leader, whose number should be listed on your case manager’s voicemail message. After that, you follow the DCS Chain of Command. Remember, you can always call your GAL.
- What or who is a GAL?
A GAL, or Guardian Ad Litem, is an attorney appointed by the juvenile court to youth who have an open case at the court.
Download GAL Booklet (PDF)
Download 2004 Juvinile Court Rights brochure (PDF)
- Who do I call if I have questions about my legal rights?
The first person you should go to is your GAL. They can tell you what is going on with your court case. If you do not have your GAL’s phone number, you can call your local juvenile court, or call the DCS office to get the number. If you forgot who your GAL is, your DCS case manager can tell you
- How can I afford to go to college?
Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid
Six steps to prepare for college or other post secondary school
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