Youth Speak Out

Youth Speak Out (YSO) is an exciting opportunity for youth to be involved in a conversation on the importance of permanency for children/youth in care.

Permanency is a protective factor for children and youth. The attachment, stability and safety that flow from a family and the social support of at least one positive adult relationship reduce the likelihood of social and economic exclusion for our most vulnerable population. Aging out is a significant risk factor for dropping out of school, hopelessness, unemployment, poverty, reliance on social assistance, contact with the criminal justice system, mental illness, and poor health outcomes.

Adoption Council of Canada (ACC) and Adoption Support Centre of Saskatchewan (ASCS) applied jointly for funding through the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation and a Canada150 grant. We were granted funding to begin a YSO group in Saskatchewan.

Purpose of YSO

The Adoption Council of Canada engages and empowers current and former youth in care to safely share their stories, build teams and networks. The Council is an advocate for system change and the need to find permanent families who will stick with adopted youth, no matter what.

How will this happen?

ACC works with the youth to develop skills in public speaking, art and digital storytelling. The articulate key messages regarding the reason permanent families are vital for children and youth in government care. After the training, team members speak on panels before audiences who can effect change to the child welfare system in Saskatchewan.

Does YSO exist elsewhere?

Yes.

YSO is in Ottawa, Fredericton, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Vancouver, Iqaluit, Guelph, Toronto, Moncton. YSO will soon be in Saskatoon. The Saskatoon group will be connected to a national network of YSO groups.

Who can participate?

YSO Saskatchewan will be made up of young people between the ages of 14 and 26 who are in foster care, adopted youth, PSI and those who have aged out. Perspective participants outside this age range will also be considered. Due to financial constraints, the first team will be made up of youth in and around Saskatoon.

How to get involved

Interested youth can contact the ASCS office at 306-665-7272

or email

resources@adoptionsask.org for an applications form. We have a limited number of spaces available.

The deadline for applications is Oct. 19.

When is training?

Youth selected for this opportunity are required to attend a training weekend.

Training dates are Friday, Oct. 27 to Sunday, Oct. 29 inclusive. Times to be determined. Food provided through-out the weekend. Transit passes provided.

Expectations for follow-up

Following training there are monthly activities/meetings that youth are expected to attend. Youth are also expected to participate in panels, speak to government officials, interested community groups and others who can impact the child welfare system in Saskatchewan.

Info courtesy of The Adoption Council of Canada

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