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A Circle of Support meeting helps you plan for leaving foster care. The Circle of Support meeting is made up of a group of caring adults you would like to be a part of your support system. These adults could be your foster parents, teachers, relatives, church members, or other mentors. Some youth want to invite biological family members, even parents whose rights have been terminated. This is allowed unless the caseworker determines it is unsafe for them to attend. If you think you are going to go live with family when you leave foster care, you need to let those planning your Circle of Support meeting know and let the judge know you want help to explore that as an option.
A Circle of Support facilitator, who is different from your caseworker, will help you plan the meeting and lead the planning process at the meeting. The facilitator will see if you want to invite your attorney and CASA. A PAL staff may also be at the meeting. The group will help you prepare a written transition plan. You have the right to insist that your Circle of Support be planned in advance so those that you want to attend have time to make plans to come or participate by phone. You also have a right to insist that there be follow- up after the Circle of Support on action items, including scheduling another Circle of Support meeting.