The Child Welfare Education and Research Program at the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work hosted the annual Older Youth Retreat for older youth in foster care or who have recently aged out of the system from August 2-5 at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown campus. About 64 young people, ages 16-20, from 24 Pennsylvania counties attended this year.
The retreat allows youth to experience what college life is like living in the dorms and having meals in the Student Union. It also allows them to participate in peer group sessions and structured activities with individuals who share similar experiences in the foster care system. Youth also participate in focus groups to help shape policy and improve services impacting older youth. This year’s theme was “The Time is Now” with a focus on self-care. All youth were provided self-care bags, and the organizers held informal self-care sessions throughout the week for youth and staff. The keynote speaker was A’ric Jackson who inspired and motivated youth to pursue their goals and dreams. Through sharing his own experiences, he reminded youth that their current situation does not define their future. His ‘Don’t be Scared’ speech focused on forgiveness both for others who have wronged us but also forgiving yourself. All youth received a copy of his book, “51 Secrets to Being an Extraordinary Leader.”
Aurianna Moore, one of the youth on the Retreat Steering Committee, has this to say about the experience: “This was my first year attending the retreat, participating in the retreat steering committee, and being a youth leader. I’ve always appreciated the opportunity to have my voice heard along with meeting new people and learning new skills. I was given a chance to do all of these things by going to the retreat, speaking up and sharing ideas during steering committee meetings, and by being a leader for my peers at the retreat.
The retreat steering committee is the group of youth and staff who plan the retreat. From the logo colors to the activities, we participate in throughout the week, it's all youth-driven, with support from staff. The committee is comprised of youth and staff from different counties across Pennsylvania who met throughout the year to discuss and share ideas on how to make the retreat unforgettable and an experience that is beneficial for all youth. I personally loved all the participation and passion for an event like this. I also had a couple of personal growth moments as I learned who I was as a team member and a leader. Overall, I loved being a member of the steering committee and really hope to participate again in the future.
I plan to go on to school for child development and education and minor in social justice. I loved getting hands on experience with younger youth and watching them break out of their shells and grow. I took away so much from the retreat and learned things about myself. I am looking forward to attending next year!”