Fostering Futures: Because No One Ages Out of Support

In this powerful episode of Heart on Your Sleeve: Focus on Philanthropy, we sat down with LilCrystal Dernier, Family Visitation Program Supervisor for Children’s Home Society to discuss the challenges, progress, and possibilities within Florida’s foster care system. LilCrystal brings firsthand experience and heartfelt advocacy to the table, shedding light on the challenges faced by foster youth, the misconceptions surrounding the system, and the urgent need for community-driven support. From policy shifts and prevention strategies to reunification and youth aging out of care, this episode covers the full scope of what it takes to create a lasting impact. Whether you are a seasoned advocate, a potential foster parent, or someone eager to make a difference, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and actionable ways to help. 🔹 Learn about the role of Children’s Home Society 🔹 Explore new Florida legislation affecting foster youth 🔹 Hear what foster youth wish people understood 🔹 Discover how nonprofits, foundations, and individuals can support this vulnerable population Join us as we center the voices of those working to transform the foster care system—and illuminate what it truly means to give with purpose. Resources to Help Foster Youth Thrive: These programs and services are designed to support a successful transition into adulthood and beyond: Connect with Your Local System of Care: ChildNet – Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties Citrus Family Care Network – Serving Miami-Dade County Extended Foster Care (EFC): Continued support until age 21—or 22 for youth with disabilities Aftercare Services: Ongoing assistance with housing, employment, education, and well-being Postsecondary Education Support Services (PESS): Monthly financial stipend for eligible youth enrolled in college or vocational programs Tuition Waivers: Free tuition at Florida’s public colleges, universities, and vocational schools Medicaid Coverage: Available until age 26 Foster Youth to Independence Vouchers: Housing assistance for youth transitioning out of care Keys to Independence: Helps youth obtain a driver’s license, insurance, and driving lessons Visit “UrFuture” to learn more about additional resources available to foster youth: ⁠https://urfuture.org/⁠ ⁠https://urfuture.org/community-resources/⁠