VOICES is a brand that recognizes the power of youth and their involvement in creating positive change. They understand that youth are not only recipients of social services but are also active leaders in supporting their peers. Their unique Youth-Engagement Model highlights their expertise in developing program activities and goals that empower each youth.

By integrating resources and services, VOICES works with the community to address the barriers that youth face as they transition out of care systems. VOICES' Youth Engagement Model has proven to be effective in bettering outcomes for older foster youth. By offering peer-to-peer services delivered by foster youth themselves, they create a more accurate understanding of the needs and vulnerabilities of this population.

This approach also leads to higher retention rates, especially among homeless and hard-to-serve youth who are traditionally disconnected from services. Additionally, VOICES' model removes barriers to participation in existing child welfare, school, and community supports. They prioritize trusting relationships and opportunities for youth to define the scope and goals of their service involvement.

By amplifying youth voice, VOICES holds youth-serving systems accountable and drives better policies and systems that address the long-standing and emerging issues faced by foster youth. VOICES operates under the umbrella of On The Move, a 501(c)(3) organization that partners with communities and mobilizes emerging leaders for social equity. To learn more about VOICES and their impactful work, visit their website at www.

onthemovebayarea. org