At Lucas County Children Services, there is a dedicated team working tirelessly to support a growing population of youth transitioning to independent living. With approximately 200 teens, ages 14 and up, currently in their care, the LCCS caseworkers are committed to shattering stereotypes and ensuring these young adults are as prepared as possible for the road ahead.
“Different” is how LCCS supervisors, Amy Cox and Dayna Riley, describe the relationship between these teens and their Independent Living (IL) caseworkers. Far beyond the traditional caseworker role, these dedicated professionals serve as mentors, life coaches, cheerleaders, and even extended family for the youth in their care.
“They stay with us for a lifetime,” says Cox. “They reach a goal – who do they call to celebrate? One of us. They have a baby? They call their caseworker, and it’s the caseworker who comes to the hospital with bags of diapers and supplies. And when things go wrong, they know that they can rely on us for help.”
Ms. Riley describes the “team” approach, involving the youth, their caregiver, and the IL caseworker, has fostered strong bonds and relationships, allowing these teens to experience a sense of normalcy. You’ll find the LCCS caseworkers in the stands at sporting events, taking teens on fun outings, and ensuring siblings stay connected, even when placed in separate homes.
Ms. Cox stated “The reality is that these youth in care are just like their peers – they reach for the same milestones, have the same hopes and dreams, and crave the same things any other teen desires: independence, stability, and respect. However, the barriers they’ve faced, such as homelessness, lack of family ties, or mental health challenges, can make the emancipation process increasingly difficult.”
The work of LCCS does not end when these youth turn 18. The agency continues to support these kids far beyond that age, ensuring they have the resources and guidance they need to succeed through our post emancipation services. Even after emancipation, the LCCS team remains a steadfast support system, providing the necessary tools and mentorship to help these young adults transition into independent living.
With a growing number of teens in their care, the IL caseworkers at LCCS face a unique and challenging job. But their mission remains clear: to give these youth as normal a childhood as possible, while preparing them for the responsibilities of young adulthood.
Through unwavering support, mentorship, and a steadfast commitment to shattering stereotypes, the LCCS team is paving the way for emancipating teens to forge their own paths to success. These young adults are not defined by their time in the child welfare system, but rather by the resilience, determination, and bright futures that lie ahead.