The Texas Center for Child and Family Studies is proud to announce a new partnership with national nonprofit Youth Villages to enhance services for transition-age youth in Texas. Through a grant from Youth Villages’ Systems Impact initiative, the Center will investigate barriers to extended foster care (EFC) participation and develop a statewide plan to expand LifeSet™, a nationally recognized model for supporting young people aging out of foster care.
LifeSet is now offered directly through Youth Villages in 11 states including Arkansas, Arizona, and Oklahoma. The program model is provided through partnerships with innovative agencies and high-performing nonprofits in 11 more states. LifeSet is even used as the model for EFC in Louisiana.
The initiative will assess why some young people in Texas are not utilizing EFC services and explore what system improvements could better support their needs. The Center will also introduce the LifeSet model to key partners (such as youth in and out of care, providers, and foster families) across the state, laying the groundwork for a broader implementation set to begin next year.
“We are excited to partner with Youth Villages to advance support for transition-age youth in Texas,” said Megan Ransom, CEO of the Center. “Too many young people aging out of foster care face uncertainty, and this project is an opportunity to understand their needs and create meaningful solutions.”
LifeSet is an evidence-informed, youth-led, program that provides individualized guidance and resources to young adults transitioning out of foster care, helping them build the skills needed for independence. The Center’s engagement with young people with lived experience and key community partners will inform a roadmap for implementing LifeSet statewide.
“At Youth Villages, we believe every young person leaving foster care deserves a solid foundation for their future,” said Patrick Lawler, CEO of Youth Villages. “We’re thrilled to connect with the Center as we all work toward evidence-based support for Texas young people.”
Many young people aging out of Texas’ foster care system face homelessness, unemployment, isolation, and unmet mental health needs due to a lack of support. Many youths do not enroll in EFC which can put them at greater risk. Understanding and addressing the barriers to eligibility and enrollment is a critical next step for Texas.
Providers and interested partners will be able to learn more about LifeSet through an information session this summer. Participants will hear from the Center and Youth Villages, and will have an opportunity to as questions about the model.