How do you build your “network” or increase your “social capital?” It comes down to trust, right? People you know you can rely on… people you respect… people that empower you. That’s who you need on your side. Creating and maintaining lasting connections is one of the best ways to grow your network and ensure you have the social capitol to move successfully to the next phase of life.
Think about your people network and who you want to involve in your life. Your team members don’t have to be perfect – really, who is? – just people who want to support you as you make your way in the world. You need to believe in your team and know that they:
- Make good choices in their own lives
- Want you to succeed
- Have wisdom to share
- Can be reached when you need them
- Foster parents or guardians
- Guardian ad litem (Person appointed to represent the best interests of a minor in a court case)
- Child Safety Specialist (Department of Child Safety)
- Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
- Lawyer
- Teacher
- Coach
- Mentor
- Church member
- Social Worker
- Friend
Be direct. Tell those you’re recruiting that you want to surround yourself with people who will be there as you take this next important step into adulthood. You may need to ask questions, or just someone with whom to talk. Most people will be happy that you respect them enough to ask. And because they feel honored by your trust, most likely they’ll want to support you.
There are lots of ways another person can be supportive of you as you venture into adulthood. Foster Club has created a Permanency Pact that includes 45 suggestions. Check it out along with these programs:
- THRIVE Mentor Program 1 (844) 747-1533 or email – For young adults transitioning out of foster care and those participating in the Independent Living Program or the Transitional Independent Living Program.
- AASK (Aid to Adoption of Special Kids) (602) 254-2275 – Mentoring services for foster youth.
- Reach & Rise Mentoring Program (602) 404-9622 – Children and young adults up to age 18 receive mentoring services through this Valley of the Sun YMCA program.
A number of relationships can be established that – unlike foster care – are meant to be permanent. These include adoption, reunification, guardianship and kinship care. Talk with your Child Safety Specialist so you know what they are and if you might want this with someone in your life.
These can be some of the most important relationships in life, and are often the relationships that get interrupted by foster care. If you want to reconnect with siblings or other family, check out the family finding section on our website and/or ask for help before you leave foster care.