DCF YAB video series

Foster and adoptive parent recruitment (PSA) video series

In the following videos, watch honest talks about foster care and adoption. Connecticut's Department of Children and Families (DCF) Youth Advisory Board (YAB) members address the shortage of foster parents and the need for foster and adoptive parents who can help youth feel like we belong. It really is worth it.

"No place to put my stuff."

This video is about teenagers who left DCF care when they turned 18 and the problems they faced while on their own.

"Meet me where I'm at."

Working with each other, CT DCF's YAB members speak directly to current/prospective foster and adoptive parents in their own words. Our youth advocates implore foster and adoptive parents to "teach me through your actions that I deserve to be cared about and treated well."

"Love" No. 1

You have the potential to impact the way someone's life is going to turn out. "The love that my foster parents showed me made a huge difference. I wouldn't be who I am today if it wasn't for them."

"Need to Belong" No. 2

A candid talk with teens in foster care who express the longing for a permanent place to live and call home.

"Unique" No. 3

From their heart, CT DCF's YAB members describe the uniqueness of each child placed into foster care. "We have a piece to bring to your family."

"Advice" No. 4

Youth give advice to prospective foster parents: "Be patient. Don't expect too much too fast."

"Everyday Experiences" No. 5

YAB members from CT DCF discuss the positive impact of foster care on children. They highlight how foster parents can teach essential life skills such as grocery shopping, cooking, laundry, and setting up a bank account.

"Normalcy" No. 6

An unscripted take on the importance of foster and adoptive parents treating youth in care as part of the family. Give them the same opportunity to enjoy their life and be normal so they feel like "I'm a kid, just like everyone else."

"Second Chance" No. 7

The importance of not allowing a child's past to define their present or future. Let the child show you who they are. Plus, more about how foster parents can be the second chance kids need to grow.

"Support Systems" No. 8

YAB members tell new foster parents that they will not be alone. Supports such as clinical therapeutic services, life skills programming, and the DCF Wilderness School are all available. These services help both youth in foster care and foster parents.

"Make a Difference" No. 9

Regardless of genders, races, ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, etc., foster parents are needed! All kids need is someone who can give them love and respect. You can make a difference in that child's life and they can make a difference in yours.

"Match" No. 10

Youth in foster care express their fears of being left alone and homeless. They also share the importance of being matched to quality foster parents and having a place to call home. "It was scary to think ‘If something happens, who do I turn to?' I don't have anybody."