DSS YOUTH SERVICES IN GUILFORD COUNTY

In Febuary 2008, DSS adopted a new strategy to help meet the specialized needs of teens. The following goals were identified as goals of the Youth Development Program.

1. 100% of all adolescents, their family members and other significant individuals identified by the adolescent will be offered the opportunity and be encouraged to participate in planning and decision making regarding the youth's services and placement, except when this would be in conflict with existing state law or clinically contraindicated.
2. Whenever possible, unless contraindicated, we will keep families together by providing in-home and supportive services. This goal will be primarily the focus of the investigative and in-home services team.
3. We will keep sibling groups intact when placed in foster care unless contraindicated due to safety and clinical reasons.
4. Children will be placed as close as possible to their home, school, and neighborhood so as to have as little disruption in their lives as possible.
5. The preferred placement is one that provides a "family like" environment. Group care is the last choice. The placement is to demonstrate support to the child in the development of independent living skills.
6. Every youth is involved in a relationship with at least one loving, responsible and caring adult while residing in and after they leave foster care.
7. All youth will leave care with a high school diploma or a certified GED with opportunities to go to college or a vocational institute.
8. Youth are encouraged to take increasing responsibility for their work and life decision, and their positive decisions are reinforced.
9. Youth will reside in safe stable living situations.
10. Young people's individual needs are met (medical, mental health, substance abuse treatment, etc.