Access to Information About Resources and Services
A problem youth have is that youth are not aware of available services and resources. There is a lack of awareness in general. You hear about benefits for Vets, but you never hear about services for youth. There is no advertising campaign. A lot of people in Texas are not aware that if you were in foster care, you can apply for a waiver to pay for school, and you can qualify for housing help.
Youth and young adults learn about resources and services from a trusted person or from a case worker after they enter a program. I had a buddy working at Elevate 361. He told me about getting help with rent and then I got a job at Elevate 361. Some programs offering services have ulterior motives – this is wrong. When I came to Elevate 361, I was hesitant – I didn’t trust people until they offered me a service I really needed to avoid homelessness. They listened and didn’t give opinions. They asked what do you need and helped me get it. I now have a relationship with the community that is willing to help me.
More folks need to be aware of programs and resources. Awareness of programs and resources should start in schools, high school, and junior high school students need to know what’s available for them and their friends.
Also, staff need to focus the limited resources on people who are ready to work, those who can do their part. If they’re not motivated, they won’t get anywhere. Most youth are ready to work; however, if people aren’t willing to put in the work, we can’t help them…come back when you’re willing to work … there may be people who are ready to work on the waitlist.
Going to college I had to do bunch of things on my own – my case manager couldn’t just call around to make things happen. My case manager treated me like an adult, showed me my options, gave me guidance, and helped with transportation. I had to do the work.
Another important need for youth is parenting classes. Teen parents who get their kids removed need to learn how to get their kids back. Not everyone has a bad foster care experience, but I wouldn’t wish foster care on anyone. Teens need the tools to become good parents.
Link Paid Work Experience to Meaningful Employment Options
Workforce solutions paid for my work experience at Elevate 361. Some youth may need more time in paid work experience, and there needs to be a bridge to meaningful work. I could work in fast food or retail, but I’m ready for something more, a job where I can use the skills I learned at my paid work experience. After paid work experience is over, there needs to be a link to desirable work. I’ve done all this work, my record is clean, I’m mentally stable, I need a connection to what’s next for me. The current system is counterintuitive.
