Youthville Has A Preference For Military Families To Keep Foster Children

http://www.wichita.gov/NR/rdonlyres/B6982FFB-5B24-45C9-ADEA-47729E3EA2B9/0/DABVFeb2008minutes.pdf

District V Advisory Board
Meeting Minutes
February 04, 2008
www.wichita.gov

The District V Advisory Board Meeting was held at 6:30 p.m. at the Auburn Hills Golf Course Clubhouse, 443 S. 135th St. W. In attendance were 8 District Advisory Board members, 5 staff and 2 citizens with 1 signing in.
Karen Lippoldt, Youthville, presented on Multi-Dimensional Treatment in Foster Care (MDTFC). The program started in the mid 1980’s. This is the only program of its kind in the Midwest. It is a 6-9 month program with a year of follow up care. She shared a packet of more detailed information on the program; how MTFC is different than other foster care programs; MTFC objectives; What MTFC can offer the community; a cost effective analysis; and contact information. She asked that if anyone is interested in becoming a foster family or knows of a child who may need this care to please contact her.
Ellzey asked where these foster children attend school. Lippoldt responded in neighborhood schools or day schools depending on their situation/ needs.
Brown questioned an earlier comment made by Lippoldt; " We especially like Military families willing to take teenagers". Lippoldt clarifies that they like ex Military families because they tend to be more stringent and less likely to form an emotional bond.
David Dennis asked about what happens at the end of the 9-month program when they re enter into their old environment. Lippoldt responded that they receive a year of follow up care. The children usually return to their birth parent home, long term foster care or become independent due to their age.
Ellzey asked about the ages of the children in this program. Lippoldt responded they have youth as young as 11 soon to turn 12 up to age 18.
Pat Ream asked whether there are female youth in the program. Lippoldt responded that about ½ of the children are females. The boys have an easier buy in to the "rules" of the program and the girls are more stubborn.