ABOUT THE EMBRACE PROJECT
EMBRACE stands for Expanding Meaningful Black Relationships And Creating Equity.
In collaboration with the Gallup Center on Black Voices, the EMBRACE project is a national five-part study to begin uncovering the gaps within the foster care system and begin a conversation about how to make the foster system work better for and with Black communities.
Phase III concluded November 15, 2023 – Phase IV is currently underway.
WE ARE FOCUSED ON MAKING REAL CHANGE
WHY THE FOCUS ON BLACK CHILDREN?
Black children are overrepresented in the foster care system and face unique challenges and experiences. Kidsave’s EMBRACE Project is dedicated to understanding these barriers, exploring their complexities, and enacting tangible change across foster care systems and society at large.
Black youth are adopted less frequently than their white counterparts, and in turn spend more time in foster care, making the possibility of finding a loving home less likely. By placing Black families and children at the forefront of our initiative, we aim to unravel the reasons behind this disparity and dismantle the systemic hurdles that hinder their adoption.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THIS PROJECT?
The EMBRACE Project’s overarching goal is to bridge the racial gaps that exist within the child welfare system, and to create a future in which Black youth can thrive. By delving into the challenges faced by Black youth in foster care, we aspire to dismantle existing barriers to adoption, not only for Black children, but all children in care. We aim to improve outcomes for Black youth and families by advocating for policy change within the child welfare system. We hope to increase recruitment of culturally competent parents to adopt Black children in order to cultivate long-term and lasting connections between Black children and adults.
Other benefits of EMBRACE are:
WHAT DOES REAL CHANGE LOOK LIKE IN PRACTICE?
Through the EMBRACE Project, we aim to drive meaningful change in research and society. By conducting research initiatives like those at the core of this project, we gain crucial insights into the challenges faced by foster youth of color. These insights inform policy adjustments that directly address these barriers and promote equitable outcomes.
At the same time, we are committed to raising awareness among the public about foster care processes to promote better understanding and empathy. We will actively encourage the engagement of parents and mentors from diverse backgrounds, nurturing a supportive environment for youth in foster care. The EMBRACE project envisions practice improvement as a fusion of comprehensive research, education, and community involvement, creating a transformative impact on the lives of Black foster youth and ultimately driving positive change throughout society.
WHAT DOES POLICY CHANGE LOOK LIKE?
The EMBRACE Project is committed to reforming and enhancing the child welfare system, particularly for Black youth in foster care. Our focus involves identifying and dismantling the barriers that hinder equitable outcomes and successful adoptions. Our work does not conclude with the research. We aim to turn these findings into tangible change by reforming the existing foster care policies. Already, We have several working proposals involving enhancing access to mental healthcare services, providing support for the unique needs of Black youth and families, increasing funding opportunities, and educating potential adoptive families, especially those considering adopting Black youth. Through these proactive steps, we aim to create a more inclusive, supportive, and just system for Black foster youth, driving positive change at the policy level.
