CalYOUTH Survey of Young Adults’ Child Welfare Workers
With the passage of federal legislation in 2008 that provided funding to extend foster care beyond age 18, states are grappling with how best to provide services to transition-age youth who are nearing independence. This study explored the perspectives of child welfare workers in California regarding the availability and quality of services for foster youth in extended care, supportiveness of other systems like the courts, and challenges to effective implementation of extended care. The analyses also examined how these workers view the youth they serve, including aspects of well-being like education, income, and health; living arrangements; service needs; and preparedness for adulthood and independence.