Youth Engagement

What is IFYA?

Welcome to the DCS Indiana Foster Youth Alliance! The Indiana Foster Youth Alliance (IFYA), formerly known as the Indiana Youth Advisory Board (IYAB), is a group of young people, 14-22, from across Indiana who are currently in or have lived experience in foster care.

IFYA is the youth board in Indiana that is responsible for advising and providing feedback to DCS on issues impacting those in foster care.

IFYA empowers members to advocate for themselves and communicate their needs and concerns effectively.

IFYA also offers a safe space for young people with lived experience in foster care to connect, share, and grow with each other.

How do I get started?

Quarterly Meetings – These virtual meetings happen 4 times a year and are often the first place someone interacts with IFYA. They are an opportunity for community and to learn about opportunities through IFYA. They are up to three hours and stipend $40.

Monthly Workgroups – These virtual meetings happen once a month. They are where the work of IFYA gets done. They are an hour and stipend $25.

*Stipends require full attendance and participation

To be a current IFYA member:

• Apply to be a member of IFYA in the Foster Success portal
• attend 2 stipend events with in 12 months (Quarterly Meeting, workgroups)

DCS Eligibility Requirements:

• Youth between the ages of 14 to 21 who have been legally adjudicated a Child in Need of Services (CHINS), who are in Indiana extended foster care program; Collaborative Care or who have an adjudicated juvenile delinquent / juvenile status.
• Former foster youth ages 18 up to 23 who were in foster care for a period of six (6) months with a case plan identifying a need for older youth services.
• Youth receiving Education and Training Voucher funds may serve on the IFYA until age 23.

You can read the IFYA Membership Agreement here.