Looking Forward

The hallmark of UFC’s work over the past 30 years is the depth and quality of our service offerings. We are committed to meeting the immediate and long-term needs of foster youth and are determined to change the dismal outcomes they face as they transition from care.

In May of 2007, UFC’s Board of Directors completed a strategic review of the organization, its programs and their outcomes. A key theme was the recognition that UFC should expand as much as possible to meet the needs of foster youth in Los Angeles County, but not at the expense of the quality of services provided.

We are currently in a testing phase best described as gradual expansion that will lay the foundation for significant future growth. The organization has responded to the current economic climate by cutting costs, but not essential services to the youth in our programs. We also continue to invest in key program areas that are strategically necessary and will allow us to achieve our vision for growth over the course of the next five years.

UFC’s innovative Pathways Transitional Living Program will serve more youth at imminent risk of homelessness and will enhance the breadth and depth of the program:

• Through the acquisition of additional housing and new partnerships that lead to more housing
• By expanding the Alumni Services Program to include permanent housing 
• By expanding mental health services to meet the needs of youth

UFC's Education Programs will ensure more foster youth are realizing their academic potential:

• By developing and testing a program design and infrastructure model for our College Readiness Program
• By developing College Readiness Program Community Hub Sites through partnerships with local school districts and community organizations with the long-term goal of serving 15% of all foster youth in Los Angeles County
• By dramatically increasing the number of foster youth graduating from high school and enrolling in four-year colleges

Through thoughtful, planned growth in key program areas, UFC will maintain the quality and compassion that are central to the organization’s success. In serving more youth while maintaining our high quality, innovative service delivery approach, UFC will be a model to others, continuing to drive positive change within the foster care system and influencing youth one life at a time.