In March, we held our first Counsel for Children Lunch and Learn. Rachel Vilensky, Director of Child Advocates' Direct Representation program, and Emmy Robison, Associate Director of Research Operations at the Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities (LEO), provided an overview of our research initiative. It is the first randomized controlled trial in the nation to study the impact of attorneys on children in the child welfare system. Our Direct Representation program offers the only free, in-house attorneys for older foster children in Indiana.

Additionally, Stephaney, a former foster youth, shared a powerful personal testimony of her turbulent experiences as a child in the child welfare system. She poignantly discussed how the constant moves and school changes created a sense of instability and lasting trauma during her childhood. She also reflected on how having an attorney representing her would have made a meaningful difference in her life. Stephaney stated, “Having to navigate the complex system by myself as a child, with no one helping me, was very difficult.”

If you’re inspired by our work, please consider making a donation. Help us serve more foster children and help build them a better future!

Counsel for Children Luncheon

By CHILD ADVOCATES INC

Counsel for Children Luncheon