What We Do :: Programs :: Youth in Foster Care :: Get Real
“Get Real”
Do you know a teen who says “no” to adoption? Here is a chance for teens to “Get Real” about their feelings and their experience of foster care. Young adults who have aged out of the system or have been adopted as teens share their challenges and accomplishments with teens who are currently in foster care.
This is a great opportunity for teens to listen to others share their experience; to talk about their own experiences of foster care; and to share their hopes for the future in a safe and supportive environment. This experience is open to teens 14-17 years old in county custody. Each teen must be accompanied by a DCFS social worker or Child-Centered Recruitment worker.
How to prepare a teen for the program:
If you are a person who either works or lives with a teen, we need your help. Here are some tips to prepare a teen to participate in this experience.
- Tell you’re teen well in advance when the event is happening & verify they want to participate.
- Tell your teen that there will be other teens in care and young adults who were in care at the event.
- Tell your teen that they will only have to share what they are comfortable sharing about themselves in the group.
- Tell the teen that this is a group where teens can come and “Get Real” about their thoughts and feelings with people who understand.
What to expect – The event schedule
- A light dinner is provided.
- Young adults & group facilitators will introduce themselves to teens that are currently in care.
- Teens will be asked to introduce themselves to the group.
- Teens have an opportunity to talk independently with the young adults who were formerly in care.
- The group will have a closing activity and then be dismissed.
- The event lasts approximately 2 hours.
There will be activities during the program that encourage teens to participate. The environment will be safe and accommodating for each teen. Adoption Network Cleveland staff will be present throughout the event to provide support.
What to expect after the program:
Many teens who participate may walk away from this experience having raised some strong feelings. They may be considering the separation and loss of their families of origin. This could bring some feelings to the surface that are difficult to manage for a teen. They may need additional support and attention following this experience.
How to respond in a helpful way:
If you are a person who either works or lives with a teen, remember the following:
- A teen’s behavior may be affected by this experience.
- Don’t be afraid to ask a teen about their feelings around this experience.
- Listen to what your teen has to say about the experience.
- Encourage your teen to talk to you about lingering feelings or questions they might have after the experience.
- Talk with a professional if your teen needs support that you feel you cannot provide.
Consultation and support is available from Adoption Network Cleveland staff, (216).325.1000
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