Research tells us that connection to at least one caring stable adult changes all the negative outcomes for transitioning and aging-out foster care youth. But how do we find and facilitate connection? How do we set our youth up for lasting success and support into adulthood? Family is forever but family is not easily defined. “Finding Forever” looks into the importance of relational permanence and connection outside the typical and traditional paths. 

In this workshop, participants will:

·        Look at some of the evidence regarding the importance of relational permanence.

·        Explore the relationship between connection and sustainable independence.

·        Learn a model for organizing and prioritizing transitional tasks related to permanence

·        Identify three different paths to relational permanency.

·        Examine three tools to help you collaborate and communicate with youth to find and facilitate connection.

This workshop will be beneficial to anyone, professional or parent who works with older and transitional aged foster-care youth.