District of Columbia: Older Youth Empowerment (OYE)

About this resource

If you’re in foster care in DC and between the ages of 15 and 21, you may be able to access support through Older Youth Empowerment (OYE) services. These services are designed to help you build the skills and support you’ll need as you move toward adulthood—things like budgeting, job training, college planning, housing prep, and more.

The Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) wants every young person to leave foster care with a plan—whether that’s reunifying with family, joining a permanent home through guardianship or adoption, or having a trusted adult committed to being in your life. Since CFSA’s support ends at age 21, it’s important to start planning early.

Through OYE, you can work with your team to set goals, build your support system, and prepare for what comes next.