Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth: Insights and Resources for Court Appointed Special Advisors
LGBTQ youth are overrepresented in foster care systems and have more negative experiences and outcomes in those systems compared to their non-LGBTQ peers. The increased incidence of placement disruptions for LGBTQ youth makes Court Appointed Special Advisors especially important in the lives of these young people. In this presentation, you will learn how to support these vulnerable youth and about resources at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services created especially for these youth. You will also hear from advocates who will share insights on being an affirming ally, and the experiences of LGBTQ youth in care.
Presenters: Gaylon Alcaraz, DCFS LGBTQ Program Coordinator; Mayadet Patitucci Cruz, Broadway Youth Center (a member of the Illinois LGBTQ Roundtable); Julio Flores, Broadway Youth Center (a member of the Illinois LGBTQ Roundtable); Ghirlandi Guidetti, ACLU of Illinois (a member of the Illinois LGBTQ Roundtable); Juliana Harms, DCFS Associate Deputy of Behavioral Health; Renee Lehocky, Lawrence Hall (a member of the Illinois LGBTQ Roundtable)
