Youth-Directed

ZNET staff and volunteers conducted individual interviews, group discussions and a day-long, youth-led focus group to gather input from young women (ages 18-21) who were either current or former foster youth. We were intentional in collecting this information before any decisions were reached about program services and the house’s structure/rules. A summary of our findings are listed below. This input has been integrated into all of Sydney's House’s policies, procedures, guidelines, rules, and business plan. A full report of the focus group event can be requested from the organization.

Most youth wanted a structured environment with a clear difference between rules and agreements. Rules stay the same regardless of which residents come and go at the house where agreements are those things that are negotiated as the residents change. All youth wanted a drug-free and smoke-free environment. They did not want a lot of foot traffic (safety issue) and no overnight guests. All youth wanted weekly house dinners along with weekly house meetings as a way to create a sense of belonging in the house and resolve issues or conflicts. These dinners and meetings would be youth-planned and driven with adult support staff in attendance to guide when necessary (but not to lead). Safety and security were the main concerns of the youth. Anything that jeopardized resident’s safety was a non-negotiable. Most youth preferred to have their own room if possible but if budget was an issue they would be OK with sharing if it meant paying a lower monthly rental amount.

In general, the youth input revealed the significant differences they would like to see between Sydney's House versus other Transitional Housing Programs and Group Homes. All agreed that in addition to signing a rental agreement that all residents of Sydney's House would also sign Shared Living Agreements between housemates. Copies of Shared Living Agreements, rental agreements, policies, and procedures are available upon request.