Local Resource: Alameda County CASA Releases Guide to Independent Living for Foster Youth

CASA volunteers in Alameda County have a new resource to help them assist the youth they represent to become independent and responsible adults. The Guide to Independent Living for Transitional Age and Emancipated Foster Youth  (PDF) was written by CASA Case Supervisor Tara Beckman and is intended to be a resource for CASA volunteers, transitioning youth from 15 to 19, and partner youth organizations to improve the outcomes of youth exiting the foster care system in Alameda County.

The 214-page guide includes practical and easily accessible local and regional information about foster youth rights, education and health resources, emancipation planning, employment preparation and resources, housing, legal services and advocacy, and other information. For example, there are sections on inexpensive and fun things to do in the Bay Area, free meals in Alameda County, mental health services, immigration resources, and writing a cover letter. There is even information on how to buy a used car.

Local commissions in other counties who would like more information on this resource and how it was funded can contact Ginni Ring, Alameda County CASA Executive Director at 510.618.1957 or tbeckman@acgov.org. The guide can be downloaded for free from the Alameda County CASA website at http://www.casaofalamedacounty.org/_customelements/uploadedResources/174134_CASAGuidebookFinalWeb.pdf.

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