Our Vision

Every young person leaving foster care has the opportunities and support needed for a successful transition to adulthood.

What We Are Learning About Young People Transitioning into Adulthood

The Number of Young People Aging Out of Foster Care Continues to Rise

While the total number of children in foster care nationally has decreased every year for more than a decade, the number of young people aging out of foster care has grown. Between 2000 and 2010, more than 260,000 young people transitioned from foster care without achieving permanent family connections. Each year, nearly 30,000 young people transition from care without achieving permanence.

…and They Face Poor Outcomes

In many states, when young people in foster care turn 18, they are no longer part of the foster care system, and many find themselves living alone, without the support, resources, and guidance of a stable family or the networks that support healthy development. As a result, they face difficult life challenges in securing:

• Education
• Employment
• Safe and stable housing
• Healthcare
• Financial capability

The Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative: Improving the Lives of Young People Transitioning Out of Foster Care

The Jim Casey Initiative works nationally, in states, and locally to improve policies and practices, promote youth engagement, apply evaluation and research, and create community partnerships. Our work creates opportunities for young people to achieve positive outcomes in permanence, education, employment, housing, health, financial capability, and social capital.