I Belong Project
hope and belongingI Belong Project
Permanency Solutions for KidsThe I Belong Project is a comprehensive initiative that assists case managers to recruit potential adoptive families by providing a high energy, inclusive experience for each child, high quality recruitment materials, inquiry management, monitoring and wraparound support for kids with the goal of adoption from foster care.
Meet Virginia's Kids
Children hoping for a family
Elijah is 8, Izayah is 4, Ella is 3
“Sometimes when I’m feeling sad she helps me become happy.”- Elijah about Ella
Why Belonging Matters
more than survivalBelonging equals thriving in the midst of their circumstances. We want to help kids in foster care to develop into strong members of our community. Forged by their experiences, but possessing the skills and support to rise above them.
Too many kids are falling through the cracks and starting their adult lives in crisis because our system alone cannot do enough to prepare them to be independent and productive citizens. The I Belong Project is about helping kids find belonging.
"We are biologically, cognitively, physically, and spiritually wired to love, to be loved, and to belong. When those needs are not met, we don’t function as we were meant to. We break. We fall apart. We numb. We ache. We hurt others. We get sick."
-- Brené Brown
I Belong Day
Celebrating Youth seeking adoptionThe I Belong Day is a high-energy, volunteer-driven, trauma-informed experience, for kids aged 8 - 19, filled with immersive activities and customized surprises aimed at building self-worth, encouraging kids to find their unique voice, and building a sense of belonging.
Youth are empowered, by professional creatives and trained volunteers, to share their stories and unique attributes with a kid-friendly interviewer to create high-quality recruiting materials to be shared with potential adoptive families.
Enroll A Child
For Case Managers onlyTo participate in VKB’s I Belong Project a child must meet the following criteria:
- Youth is between the ages of 8 - 19 years old, currently in foster care in Virginia and have the goal of adoption. (younger children may be approved to participate upon special request.)
- TPR (Termination of Parental Rights) MUST be finalized prior to registering your youth.
- Youth must have a case manager willing to collaborate with VKB.
- An AREVA # is available or has been requested.
- Youth must be available for adoption (no pending placement).
- Youth must WANT to be adopted.
The Results
permanency changes everythingPermanency for participants in the I Belong Project takes many forms. Some are adopted. Some build lifetime family relationships but choose not to be adopted. Some are placed with extended family. Some age out of care and continue to look for a family as young adults.
To date, 54 young Virginians have completed the adoption from foster care process with help from the I Belong Project.
50%
of kids who participate in the national I Belong Project are matched with potential adoptive families within 12 months.