A Look at 1996-1998...
December 11, 2009
In 1996, Dianah Smith retired from the NYICN as National Development Officer and was replaced by Yvonne Andrews. From 1996 - 1998, the Network led the "The Partnership Development Project"; a national initiative that developed and helped to strengthen provincial and local youth in care networks in nine provinces.
In 1997, the NYICN produced "The Real Deal", a rights awareness publication for youth in care in Ontario. At the same time the Network began developing its first website. Also that year, the NYICN partnered with the Federation of BC Youth In Care Networks and several other youth in care networks across the country to help coordinate the youth program for the International Foster Care Organizations's conference held in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Then, in 1998 the NYICN organized one of the largest youth in care events in its history. Known as "The Network Buffet" close to 80 young people from each province and the territories traveled by plane, train, automobile and bicycle to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia for this five day conference. During the event the NYICN produced a video entitled "Coast to Coast; A Nation of Youth United." The video captures the themes of the conference such as peer-to-peer support, rights awareness, youth engagement and empowerment and the power of youth in care networks. More than a decade later, the messages remain relevant and the video is still used to inform and inspire youth and caregivers alike.
For more information contact:
Yvonne Andrews
yvonne@youthincare.ca
