Courtesy photo.
VENTURA COUNTY — 20 local transitional-aged foster youth have been selected to participate in a digital literacy computer training seminar, taking place July 15 and 16 at the County of Ventura Human Services Agency.
A powerful collaboration between the Ventura County Office of Education, Children’s Services Auxiliary, and Foster VC Kids has made this once in a lifetime opportunity available for foster youth as they prepare to transition to college life and adulthood. Local SUBWAY® Restaurants have generously sponsored lunch for both days of the training.
The hands-on workshop will introduce foster youth to the skills necessary to use computer technology in everyday life to enhance their educational, social, and employment oriented opportunities. Computer competence is absolutely essential for youth to be successful in school and competitive in the job market, and many foster youth lack the financial resources and support necessary to develop in this area on their own.
“We are so excited to see the community come together to provide this opportunity to our transitional-aged foster youth,” says Angelina McCormick Soll, Resource Family Recruitment, Development, & Support Coordinator with Foster VC Kids, a program of Ventura County Children and Family Services. “It’s so important that we continue to mentor, support, and nurture our foster youth, especially as they prepare for college and life beyond the foster care system. These crucial computer skills will serve them for the rest of their lives.”
While 90% of United States teens and 79% of low-income U.S. teens have access to computer technology in their homes, only 20% of foster youth have comparable access. A recent study by the iFoster network reports that foster youth who received laptops improved their grades, missed less time in school, maintained better contact with supportive friends and family, and experienced enhanced levels of self-esteem.
In addition to invaluable digital literacy skills such as social media safety, connectivity and integration knowledge, and software training, each of the 20 participating foster youth will receive their own laptop computer, printer, and suite of Microsoft programs.
If you are interested in partnering with Foster VC Kids to provide support for youth in care, please call 805-654-3220.
Event Information:
- Who: Ventura County Office of Education, Children’s Services Auxiliary, and Foster VC Kids, a division of Ventura County Children and Family Services
- What: Digital Literacy Computer Training Seminar
- When: Friday July 15th and Saturday July 16th
- About Ventura County Human Services Agency, Foster VC Kids
Ventura County Human Services Agency (VCHSA) strengthens families, supports self-sufficiency and promotes safety, health, and well-being. All of their service areas operate and perform at the highest level to meet the needs of individuals, families, and the community by providing assistance, aid, and protection for foster youth and beyond. VCHSA demonstrates the ability to work in multicultural environments and ensures that policies, programs, and actions communicate respect for the dignity of all people. Visit www.fostervckids.org for more information.
Media Contact:
Consortium Media
805-654-1564
Briana Kallas, ext. 117
Briana@consortium-media.com