Foster Youth

A Journey of Healing: A Family Reunited at The Gathering Place

By Alternative Family Services / September 20, 2024
Their journey reminds me why we do what we do at The Gathering Place—to create a space where healing, hope, and reunification are possible.

I first met a young client, Charlie*, and his mother Annie*, in December 2023 at The Gathering Place (TGP). They were hesitant, quiet, and burdened heavily when they arrived. In…

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Dear 10-Year-Old Self: Letter from A Former Foster Youth

By Alternative Family Services / February 22, 2024
Dear 10-year-old self, know that you are loved, valued, and incredibly strong. Our journey is a testament to the power of resilience, a reminder that dawn always breaks no matter how dark the night is.

Note: This “letter” was written by a former AFS foster youth, describing what they would tell a past version of themselves now. Dear 10-Year-Old Self, I’m reaching out across the…

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Where to Find Resources for Foster Youth in California

By Alternative Family Services / July 22, 2023
Here at AFS, we recently put together a guide highlighting key resources for foster youth in California – and for others in the state in need of support and resources. You can check it out here: https://www.afs4kids.org/resources/

Here at AFS, we recently put together a guide highlighting key resources for foster youth in California – and for others in the state in need of support and resources.…

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Reunification and Foster Care: What You Need to Know

By Alternative Family Services / June 24, 2023
Reunification and Foster Care: What You Need to Know [AFS Blog]

What do foster parents, children in foster care, biological families and the general public need to know about reunification in foster care? Let’s explore the reunification process within the foster…

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Impact Story: Sarah

By Alternative Family Services / August 24, 2022
Impact Story: Sarah

Sarah* was five years old when she started individual therapy with Alternative Family Services (AFS). Sarah had one failed adoption attempt already and was struggling in her new prospective adoptive placement. Sarah was…

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How to Support the Education Needs of Transition Age Youth

By Alternative Family Services / June 15, 2021
TAY Youth Education

As compared to other young adults, transition age youth (TAY) who have or will soon emancipate from foster care face enormous challenges, including how to pursue their educational needs.   Many…

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