Description

Drawing on both lived experiences within the child welfare system and professional work with current and former foster youth, the presenters offer practical suggestions and engagement techniques for CASA volunteers and other child-serving professionals. Recognizing that no single approach works for every young person—each youth has their own unique story, strengths, and challenges—the presenters provide a range of strategies that can be tailored to individual needs. The information shared is intended to support and enhance the ability of all professionals who work with youth to build trust, communicate effectively, and foster meaningful connections.

Continuing Education Accreditation

• 1 hour Sup.R.48, CEU, and CLE

Trainers

Talia Holmes – Management Analyst, Office of Families and Children, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services

Talia Holmes is a Management Analyst with the Office of Families and Children within the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. In this capacity, she serves as a foster care youth advocate, coordinating programs and trainings to benefit youth who are currently in foster care. As a youth who experienced foster care, Talia was involved with her local youth advisory board in a leadership capacity. In addition, Ms. Holmes is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in social work. Ms. Holmes is passionate about making sure that all youth in foster care are given a voice and know that there is always someone in their corner who has their best interest at heart and works to ensure that child welfare continues to build innovative partnerships with those they serve.

Nashawn Lariviere – Management Analyst, Office of Families and Children, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services

As a Foster Care Youth Advocate, Nashawn Lariviere works with different entities and programs under the Office of Families and Children to advocate for effective practices in caring and engaging with transition age youth and emancipated young adults. Before this position with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Mr. Lariviere worked with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health International) on Youth Move National, and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, participating in special appointed councils as well as national and statewide advocacy work groups. He is certified in Peer Support and believes the only way to overcome barriers and challenges one goes through is to revisit and help others maneuvering like situations.