Peer Support & Mentorship Programs
FosterClub – Peer Support for Youth in Care
FosterClub is a national network led by and for youth in foster care. It offers peer-led events, blogs, discussion boards, and leadership programs to help foster youth connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. The site also hosts the FosterClub All-Stars, a peer mentoring program for young leaders.
https://www.fosterclub.com/
Statewide Youth Advisory BoardThe mission of the Youth Advisory Board (SYAB) is to educate, advocate for and empower all youth in care. RYAB (Regional) meetings are held monthly and are convened by regional youth board leaders. Current and former youth in care between the ages of 14-21 are encouraged to attend. There are virtual and in-person meetings available. https://dcfs.illinois.gov/brighter-futures/independence/statewide-youth-advisory-board.html
Foster Care to Success (FC2S) Foster Care to Success is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit dedicated to helping youth in foster care achieve success through higher education and life skills development. They offer scholarships, mentoring, internships, and care packages for students who have aged out of the system. FC2S helps young people transition to independence with support, resources, and the tools they need to thrive in college, career, and life. https://www.fc2success.org/
Think of Us – Youth Support Network Think of Us is a national platform co-created with foster youth to provide guidance, peer support, and resources for youth transitioning out of care. The platform includes coaching, life planning tools, and access to community support networks. Youth can connect with others who’ve had similar experiences and receive real-time guidance as they navigate adulthood. https://www.thinkofus.org/
Big Brothers, Big SistersBig Brothers Big Sisters is a nationally recognized mentoring organization that pairs children facing adversity with caring adult mentors, creating positive, long-lasting relationships. Through one-on-one support, youth build confidence, improve academic performance, and develop stronger social skills. Programs are available in communities nationwide, including opportunities for both youth and adult mentors.https://www.bbbs.org/
Statewide Youth Advisory BoardThe mission of the Youth Advisory Board (SYAB) is to educate, advocate for and empower all youth in care. RYAB (Regional) meetings are held monthly and are convened by regional youth board leaders. Current and former youth in care between the ages of 14-21 are encouraged to attend. There are virtual and in-person meetings available. https://dcfs.illinois.gov/brighter-futures/independence/statewide-youth-advisory-board.html
Foster Care to Success (FC2S) Foster Care to Success is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit dedicated to helping youth in foster care achieve success through higher education and life skills development. They offer scholarships, mentoring, internships, and care packages for students who have aged out of the system. FC2S helps young people transition to independence with support, resources, and the tools they need to thrive in college, career, and life. https://www.fc2success.org/
Think of Us – Youth Support Network Think of Us is a national platform co-created with foster youth to provide guidance, peer support, and resources for youth transitioning out of care. The platform includes coaching, life planning tools, and access to community support networks. Youth can connect with others who’ve had similar experiences and receive real-time guidance as they navigate adulthood. https://www.thinkofus.org/
Big Brothers, Big SistersBig Brothers Big Sisters is a nationally recognized mentoring organization that pairs children facing adversity with caring adult mentors, creating positive, long-lasting relationships. Through one-on-one support, youth build confidence, improve academic performance, and develop stronger social skills. Programs are available in communities nationwide, including opportunities for both youth and adult mentors.https://www.bbbs.org/