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Participants in Vermont’s first two youth permanency convenings were clear: They wanted to hear more from youth in foster care—and hearing from youth is the most effective way to create real change. 

So when Vermont’s third youth permanency convening took place on May 1, “Youth Voices” was more than a theme. It was a reflection of how the convening was planned and implemented, with substantial opportunities for participants to hear from youth themselves.

Leading the way were Vermont’s own youth participants, in conjunction with the Massachusetts Speak Out Team (part of Massachusetts Families for Kids). Speakers and workshop facilitators were chosen for their expertise and ability to assure that youth are supported and encouraged to use their voices to inform and inspire.

Over 220 participants attended the convening, representing child protection, education, youth services, and mental health providers as well as youth and families. The planning committee focused on expanding participation among legal professionals and guardian ad litems to bring the conversation about youth permanence to important new audiences.

Cynthia Walcott, deputy commissioner of Vermont Family Services, detailed recent state initiatives:

• creation of a permanency unit,
• improvements in several permanency indicators,
• institution of permanency plans for each district,
• provision of permanency consultation to districts by central office and Project Family specialists.

Lessons learned from the convening

• Soliciting youth voices only has meaning if it results in real, systemic change. 

• Efforts to change current programs and develop new programs and services that include the input and perspectives from youth are critical to youth well-being and success. 

• Future efforts must reach broader and deeper into the state child protection system, the community, and most importantly, the foster youth population.  

Next steps
Over the next year, the state agency will continue to initiate youth permanence-related activities. Activities will include:

• tracking data and reviewing evaluation results,
• organizing and publishing a statewide permanency newsletter,
• including a permanency focus in their Child and Family Services Review Program Improvement Plan,
• collaborating on permanency trainings with mental health providers and others in the community, and
• facilitating local permanency discussions through the Vermont Adoption Consortium.

After three permanency convenings, the state is recommending the event be held annually—to build enthusiasm, renew the commitment to finding families for youth, and continue to educate stakeholders new to this important work.