Soul Family Framework - An Innovative Approach to Permanency for Older Youth in Foster Care

The SOUL Family framework is an innovative legal permanency option designed for foster youth ages 16 and older. Developed by young advocates with lived experience, this model stands for Support, Opportunity, Unity, and Legal relationships, aiming to provide a stable network of adults for those transitioning to adulthood. Unlike traditional adoption or guardianship, this pathway allows participants to form new legal bonds without requiring the severance of existing ties to their birth families or siblings. The Annie E. Casey Foundation is actively promoting this initiative through partnerships, research, and resource development to address the high number of youth who age out of the system without permanent families. By offering a flexible support system, the framework seeks to ensure young people have the necessary social and financial foundations to thrive independently.