Discussion explores best foster care practices for engaging youth identifying as LGBTQ+
The VCU School of Social Work and its Child Welfare Stipend Program hosted a panel discussion, Fostering Truth: A Conversation About Best Practices in Working with and Engaging Youth in Foster Care who Identify as LGBTQ+, on April 28, 2021.
The panel session, available for viewing through the YouTube archive above, featured:
- Mikaela Doench, M.S.W. student, Class of 2021
- John Ruane, M.S.W. student, Class of 2021, and Child Welfare Stipend Program recipient
- Kristen Caldwell, family services specialist (foster care/adoptions), Lynchburg Human Services
- Maurice Gattis, Ph.D., associate professor, VCU School of Social Work
- Em Parente (Ph.D.’11/SW), assistant director of policy & practice, Division of Family Services, Virginia Department of Social Services
- Alex Wagaman, Ph.D., associate professor, VCU School of Social Work
Resource List
Articles/Resources:
- New York Times: What Happens to Some L.G.B.T.Q. Teens When Their Parents Reject Them
- RISE (Recognize Intervene Support Empower) Publications
- Weeks, A., Altman, D., Stevens, A., Lorthridge, J., & Heaton, L. (2017). Strengthening the Workforce to Support Youth in Foster Care who Identify as LGBTQ+ through Increasing LGBTQ+ Competency: Trainers’ Experience with Bias. Child Welfare, 96(2), 125–.
- Annie E. Casey Foundation
- Human Rights Campaign: All Children – All Families: Online Learning Offerings
- Human Rights Campaign: Glossary
Podcasts:
- CaseyCast [October 22, 2017]: Ellen Kahn talks better care for LGBTQ youth in foster care. (37min.)
- The Social Workers Radio Talk Show [January 31, 2019]: LGBTQ youth in foster care – Dr. Sarah Mountz of UAlbany SSW. (39min.)
Books
- Histories of the Transgender Child – Julian Gill-Paterson
- Out in the Country: Youth, Media, and Queer Visibility in Rural America – Mary L. Gray
Download the Resource List (PDF)
Categories Alumni, Community, Students