New center calls out for foster teens

One day the teenager is in a foster home with meals and a place to sleep, a sense of security and belonging. The next day, an 18th birthday, it’s all gone. The framework of county assistance disappears and the youth is legally emancipated, “aged out” of the system.
Beginning April 2, with the opening of Sonoma V.O.I.C.E.S. in Santa Rosa, foster teens will have a place to turn for help and advice. Voicing Our Independent Choices for Emancipation Support brings support services all under one roof for the first time in Sonoma County. The one-stop community center will be staffed by experts – eight recently emancipated foster youth, ages 18 to 22.
“It’s a bridge of support through a tough transition,” said Site Director Mitch Findley, 21. “The center brings all the resources together in one place, a place where youth can feel at home and get their needs met.”
At least 10 local agencies have agreed to schedule staff on-site at V.O.I.C.E.S., including TLC Child and Family Services and the Independent Living Program (ILP). The streamlining provides easy access to resources for housing, education, employment and health. Additionally, Findley said, the center offers important peer-to-peer communication “in a space where they feel safe and welcomed.”
Some 65 foster youth turn 18 each year in Sonoma County, according to Findley. Being available for teens approaching emancipation, and those needing help for several years afterwards, is vital, he said. “It’s an open door policy. We’re here to help any way we can.”
The center, a converted duplex at 335 College Avenue, was made possible with a $40,000 grant from The Junior League of Napa-Sonoma. “We are excited that the center is now a reality to help youth transition and become productive members of the community,” said Patti Bradley, JLNS president. League members will also serve as volunteer staff.
With the support of the Sonoma County Human Services Department, JLNS partnered with On the Move, the non-profit that provided a model with its successful Napa County program. The Sonoma County effort started last August with a group of nine 18- to 22-year-olds recruited and empowered to create the bureaucracy-busting center. They made it a reality in just eight months.
“I have been totally inspired by the way the nine young founders have come together as a team to build this,” commented Leslie Medine, executive director of On the Move. “In spite of everything they have been through growing up, they have decided to take matters into their own hands and are creating something truly incredible.”
The grand opening for V.O.I.C.E.S.-Sonoma is Thursday, April 2 from 5-8 p.m. The public is welcome to attend.