The state of Ohio has established a Department of Children and Youth to promote positive, lifelong outcomes for youth. Several state programs are being absorbed into this department, including Children Services.

On Wednesday, October 25, 2023, OHIO YAB youth leaders met virtually with Director Kara Wente and her staff. After the call, a follow-up letter was sent, outlining youth requests for the creation of a Youth page on the DCY website, to be focused on resources and to include photographs of teens and young adults.

During her meeting with youth, Director Wente shared that she had previously been in touch with 640 stakeholders, held 60 stakeholder meetings, participated in over 10 hours of listening sessions, and listened to 146 family stories in five key regions of the state. However, these stakeholder meetings were not inclusive of or focused on foster youth, or other youth populations that lack family privilege.

Director Wente has invited Ohio foster care youth and young adults to share what went well with their foster care experience and what could have gone better. Ohio youth leaders are currently creating written and video testimonials. Here is a link to a sample template for this opportunity.

So far, Ohio youth leaders have submitted the following testimonials:

• Kevin shared gratitude that Youth Centered Permanency Roundtables have connected him with an adoptive family, and for the support he has received from his county children services agency.
  
• Aaron shared the desire to help, and some specific areas for improvement.