The implementation of the 1999 Foster Care Independence Act in the Contra Costa County Independent Living Skills Program

Project (M.S.W., Social Work) -- California State University, Sacramento, 2011.This study explored the successes and challenges surrounding the implementation of the 1999 Foster Care Independence Act (FCIA) in Contra Costa County. This research focused on the interpretation and implementation of the policy in the areas of housing, education, employment and mentoring. The data collected was compiled of surveys, and a review of the implementation of the Foster Care Independence Act policy in Contra Costa County. This researcher administered survey questionnaires to eleven (N=11) emancipated foster youth from Contra Costa County who participated in the Independent Living Skills Program and to seventeen (N=17) current Contra Costa County social workers to determine the success and challenges of the 1999 Foster Care Independence Act implementation in Contra Costa County. The results of the study indicate that Contra Costa County has successfully implemented the 1999 Foster Care Independence Act using its Independent Living Skills Program and providing the foster youth all with of the services as in accordance with the policy. This program is essential to the success of the foster youth although more refinements of the program and foster youth's involvements could be considered.Social Wor