Aging Out Program

Summary

In an effort to provide continuous resources and services to youth aging out of the foster care system, the Aging Out Initiative was developed to serve youth aged 16-21. Funded by nine local and national organizations, the program will serve up to 200 youth in state custody over a three-year period. Children learn to advocate for themselves in court, with employers and in business relationships. They also obtain a high school diploma or GED and they have peer advisors who help them set educational, financial and personal goals. Staff and volunteers assist youth leaving foster care to become strong, self-sufficient adults.

The Aging Out Initiative is funded by LIFP, the Local Initiative Funding Partners of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation incuding Daughters of Charity Healthcare Foundation of St. Louis, Deaconess Foundation, Express Scripts Foundation, Incarnate Word Foundation of Missouri, Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis, Missouri Foundation for Health, Commerce Bank (Norman J. Stupp Foundation), City of St. Louis Mental Health Board and Trio Foundation of St. Louis.

Program Specifics

Started in 2007, the program will serve up to 200 clients between the ages of 16 and 21 who are currently in state custody.
Participants live in transitional or independent living programs throughout St. Louis.
With the assistance of peer advisors, youth learn to speak in court on their own behalf, develop employment securing strategies, open bank accounts and successfully utilize daily living skills.
Youth also learn to navigate the healthcare system and exhibit leadership skills.
All participants compile a “Life Binder” which contains all their important personal and legal documents.
Obtaining a high school diploma or earning a G.E.D. is a program requirement.
Staff members are available for guidance and networking in a centralized resource center.
There is also a 24 hour telephone helpline.

For more information or to obtain an Aging Out Referral Packet, call the Aging Out Hotline (314) 222-4877.

Download the Aging Out referral packet (pdf)