Maryland Implementation Project Maryland Department of Human Resources, Social Services Administration Youth Engagement in Planning for Self-Sufficiency The Maryland Department of Human Resources, Social Services Administration, is implementing a youth engagement initiative to improve permanency outcomes for older youth. The project goal is to improve the number of youth who transition to young adulthood with permanent connections and the skills necessary to be self sufficient. This initiative has and will continue to include the youth voice in addressing issues related to practice, policy, and decision-making related to individual goals and plans. During 2010 the Maryland leadership team and key stakeholders, through the work of a Steering Committee, developed a youth engagement model and practice standards utilizing a process of researching best practices; assessing current services, and obtaining the perspective of a broad range of stakeholders, especially youth. Creating a resource guide of services for youth in the child welfare system; and strategies for tracking process and outcomes of the initiative is incorporated into the overall plan. The initiative has progressed from the installation phase of the initiative to initial implementation. Implementation of the model and practice standards will begin in spring 2011in three counties and regions of the state. The counties will participate in an orientation to become familiar with the initiative, training on the model and practice standards, and will receive technical assistance as they move toward full implementation. Youth Matter Video | 
