Programs and Initiatives

Impact Case Studies

We work in partnership across research and data, service delivery, and state and federal policy to improve outcomes for youth and families interacting with the child welfare system. These case studies demonstrate the impact of engaging lived-experts in the process of creating solutions and reforms to impact generations to come.

Full Portfolio

Lived Experience Systems Design Method™

Every child needs a safe, nurturing environment to grow and thrive. Yet, our current child welfare system often fails to provide the support for families in need, leaving them without the resources and support needed to heal, develop, and thrive to become successful adults. The missing link? Truly understanding the lived experiences of those impacted.

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Kin, First and Foremost: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Path Forward for Kinship Care

Think of Us is proud to present "Kin, First and Foremost," a forward looking report on kinship care in the child welfare system. Based on extensive field research with over 500 participants across California, Indiana, and New Hampshire, this study provides crucial insights into the experiences of youth, families, and professionals involved in kinship care.

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Kinship Care Literature Review

Think of Us has conducted a comprehensive scoping review of recent literature on kinship care, answering key questions such as: What do we know about kinship care? What don't we know? And what are the next steps for kinship care research?

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Exploring Federal Supports for Transition-Age Youth

A collaboration with the U.S. Children’s Bureau to bring 20 diverse youth and young adult Ambassadors to inform the agency’s work plan.

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The Lived Experience Engine™

The largest community of people with lived experience in child welfare that can be engaged and mobilized at critical moments for systems change.

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Federal Engagement: U.S. Congress

Working with Congress to target issues that impact child welfare, youth, and families.

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Federal Engagement: Children's Bureau

Working with the Children’s Bureau to shape regulation, oversight, and priorities for the child welfare system.

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Foster Youth to Independence Initiative Housing Vouchers

Streamlining processes for foster youth to obtain federal housing vouchers to help them achieve housing stability.

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Federal Engagement: White House

Proximate Policy: working with the Administration to target issues that impact child welfare, youth, and families.

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LA County Quarantine Housing

Redesigning the LA County quarantine housing program for foster youth as an immediate response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Aged Out

Youth who age out of foster care experience devastating outcomes, despite increased development of services and supports. In this report we ask, "What are we missing?".

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