Manager, Youth Development Services, Catherine Giacalone

Youth Development Services has convened a county-wide group of foster youth advocates and professionals to plan for the unique needs of foster children in school in Contra Costa County. Utilizing a unique partnership, Office of Education Liaisons, located in Children and Family Services field offices in Richmond and Antioch, facilitate the prompt school enrollment of foster youth by tracking school records and assisting foster parents with the school enrollment process. Tutoring is provided to improve educational outcomes for foster youth living in group home placements.

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Homeless Program youth coordinators improve the lives of displaced children and youth in Central and East County by improving students' educational opportunities. Liaisons assist with immediate enrollment in school and assist with transportation. They also ensure equal access to school-based programs, extra-curricular activities and after-school programs.

You can download the Youth Development Services Homeless Program brochure here. (PDF - 228KB)

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WorkAbility I is a California Department of Education funded program that enhances the development of employment and transition skills for special education students. Students who have active Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) and are attending County Office of Education Court and Community Schools are eligible to participate in the WorkAbility Program's pre-employment skills, interest assessment, paid internships and on-the-job training.

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Youth Development Services implements the in-school component of the Workforce Investment Act Program. Coordinators help students prepare for careers and/or post-secondary school, conventional training opportunities, and provide financial aid guidance. The program targets: 16-21 year old youth who meet the federal income eligibility guidelines; foster youth; and students who are eligible for special education services. Participants receive job internships, job shadowing, career assessments and subsidized work.

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