Nationwide, only 54% of children in foster care graduate high school. However, the children in the care of One Family Illinois achieve a 100% graduation rate. How? The One Family Illinois Difference. Our unique foster care model differs from traditional foster care by emphasizing five components; keeping siblings together, the care of a full-time and professionally trained Foster Parent, growing up in a single-family home, our intentional community of care, as well as offering family strengthening services to keep families intact whenever possible. These components all work together to provide stability, social networking, and consistency in education.
Providing Stability
In the traditional foster care system, children only receive on average a fourteen-day notice prior to their transfer. This makes the foster home seem less like a safe place and more like just another stop. Often, the children aren’t able to settle in and make themselves comfortable due to fear and possibility of a transfer. At One Family Illinois, we provide security. A stable and welcoming household is always available. Our Village homes can host up to six siblings in the same household.
Social Networking
We emphasize a communal foster care model in order to increase social networking and overall well-being for both Foster Parents and the children in our care. Children and parents face a unique set of challenges when fostering. A strong support network can help alleviate those problems and create a much needed sense of community. Traditional foster care can leave children feeling isolated. One Family Illinois’ model is collective and communal thanks to our Village of homes and access to on-site support groups as well as recreational facilities.
Consistency in Education
One Family Illinois maintains a high completion rate for student graduations. We currently have a 100% completion rate with 56% of our middle and high school students on the honor roll. Unfortunately, the traditional foster system only has 54% of students graduating high school. Even less go on to pursue higher education. Part of One Family Illinois’ success can be attributed to keeping the student in the same school district, regardless of a rare change in Village homes. This ensures a safe and stable learning environment for our students. Making and maintaining strong relationships with friends at school is also part of social networking.
For more information about the One Family Illinois difference, visit the One Family Illinois Difference page of our website.