SaySo’s NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR is…

LINK-UP YOUTH CONFERENCE PAGE

SaySo Survivor Update Page

2012 Newsletters

2012 - Volume 13
(Please click the issue you would like to view)

Issue 1 - January
Issue 2 - March
Issue 3 - May
Issue 4 - July
Issue 5 - November

SaySo Saturday Update Page

The Bill of Rights is Here!!!

LGBTQ

LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trangender or questioning)

Here is the best provided information on LGBTQ youth and families in Care as well as contact information for support

Information for LGBTQ youth in Care

FAQ about Transgender Individuals & Gender Identity

If you have any suggestions for other topic or information you would like to add, email [email protected]

Supportive Services

Supportive Serivces is here with contact information for addtional assistance on issues that maybe personal to you. You may not want to share it with us, but we encourage you to please talk to someone who can help.

Here are a couple to look at:

National Suicide Prevention - 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

National Teen Domestic Violence Abuse Hotline - 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

http://www.thehotline.org/is-this-abuse/teens-and-dating-abuse/

National Bullying Prevention Center

http://www.pacerteensagainstbullying.org/#/home

National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

http://www.rainn.org/get-help/national-sexual-assault-hotline

Suicide Prevention Resource Ctr (Teen tip sheet)

http://www.sprc.org/sites/sprc.org/files/Teens.pdf

SaySo By-laws

Article I Name, Seal, and Offices

Section 1.1 Name. The name of this corporation is:

SAYSO, INC.

The name of this corporation shall not be used in connection with any meeting or program not approved by the corporation. This corporation may be referred to herein as the "corporation" or as “SAYSO” (standing for “Strong Able Youth Speaking Out”).

Section 1.2 Seal. The corporate seal of the corporation shall consist of two (2) concentric circles between which is the name of the corporation and in the center of which is inscribed SEAL: and such seal, as impresses on the margin hereof, is hereby adopted as the corporate seal of the corporation.

Section 1.3 Registered Office. The corporation shall have and continuously maintain a registered office and registered agent in the state of North Carolina. The registered agent or the location of the registered office within the State of North Carolina may be changed by resolution of the Board of Directors or Executive Committee.

Section 1.4 Principal Office. The principal place of business of the corporation and the principal office of the corporation is currently located at the offices of Independent Living Resources, Inc., 411 Andrews Road, Suite 230, Durham, North Carolina 27705. The principal office may be changed at any time by resolution of the Board of Directors.

Section 1.5 Branch Offices. Other branch or subordinate offices may be established, by appropriate resolution of the Board of Directors, at any time and at any place or places as may be designated by the Board of Directors.

Article II Articles of Incorporation, Purposes

Section 2.1 Articles of Incorporation. The Articles of Incorporation are incorporated into and made a part of these bylaws.

Section 2.2 Purposes. The purposes of this corporation are set forth in its Articles of Incorporation.

Section 2.3. Limitation of Purpose. It is expressly declared that the corporation exists for charitable purposes only and has not been formed for pecuniary profit or financial gain, and no part of the assets, income or profit of the corporation shall inure to or be distributed to the benefit of any member, donor, director, officer, employee or private individual. No substantial part of the activities of the corporation shall consist of carrying on propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation, and the corporation shall not participate, or intervene in (including the publication or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other provisions of these Articles, the corporation shall not carry on any activities not permitted to be carried on:

a. By a corporation exempt from Federal Income Tax under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended or

b. By a corporation, contributions to which are deductible under Section 170 (c) (2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended.

Section 2.4. Public Support. The corporation shall conduct such programs and activities as the Board of Directors shall determine so as to attract broadly-based financial support from the general public, public charities and governmental units, on a continuous basis.

Section 2.5. Dissolution. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the corporation, the Board of Directors of the corporation shall dispose and deliver all assets of the corporation for such charitable purposes as are set forth in the Articles of Incorporation. Unless and until the Board of Directors shall determine otherwise, or the same shall be inconsistent with the Articles of Incorporation, the corporate assets shall be distributed upon dissolution or liquidation to the North Carolina Chapter of Prevent Child Abuse.

Article III
Membership

Section 3.1. Application for membership. Any individual, firm, corporation, agency, association, group, partnership or other entity eligible for membership in one or more classes of members as hereinafter provided may file with the Board of Directors of SAYSO an application for membership in said class or classes of membership. Upon payment of any dues as prescribed for the particular membership class, and upon acceptance of the application for membership, the applicant shall be considered a member in good standing of SAYSO.

Section 3.2. Classes of membership. The membership of SAYSO shall presently be comprised of a single class of regular members, and a special class of members, which shall be referred to collectively as the SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee. The Board of Directors, in its discretion, may expand membership options into the two additional classes: (i) institutional membership, and (ii) associate membership.

a. Regular members shall include those individuals, age 14 to 24, residing in North Carolina, who are currently or have been in “out-of-home” care, including foster care, juvenile detention/training centers, group homes, kinship placements, and mental health placements.

b. Adult Advisory Committee members shall include those adult individuals, selected from time to time by the Board of Directors in the manner hereinafter described, who can provide dependable, committed and enthusiastic support, and advice, to SAYSO.

c. Institutional members (when authorized) shall include those firms, corporations, agencies, associations, groups, partnerships or other entities that support the objectives of SAYSO.

d. Associate members (when authorized) shall include all individuals who share the objectives of SAYSO but are not qualified as regular members, by reason of age or life experience, or place of residence.

e. Subject to the specific roles hereinafter set forth for the SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee, it is understood that only regular members, as defined above, shall have voting rights in Society matters. It is further understood, however, that such voting rights do not include any entitlement to vote on bylaw amendments.

Section 3.3 Human Rights. Membership in SAYSO shall be open to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, marital status, disability, or sexual orientation. SAYSO shall not discriminate against any person because of the above factors. While participating in the activities of SAYSO, all persons shall comply with this policy.

Article IV
Dues and Terms of Membership

Section 4.1. Dues and Terms of Membership. No regular member shall be required to pay dues, but may be required to affirm in writing, not more frequently than annually, the member’s desire to remain enrolled as an member. Unless otherwise provided herein, or otherwise determined by the Board of Directors, membership shall generally be determined on a calendar year basis. The amounts of dues, and terms of membership, for other classes of membership, if any other classes of membership are established, shall be determined from time to time by the Board of Directors.

Section 4.2 Board Orientation Attendance (Amended September 25, 2010). Attendance to SaySo BOD Orientation is mandatory for all elected members to the SaySo Board of Directors. Absence will prevent a member from being commissioned to the SaySo Board of Directors. Exceptions to this should be a crisis and discussed with the SaySo Program Director. Final determination will be made by the Board at Orientation.

Article V
Board of Directors

Section 5.1. General powers. The business and affairs of the association shall be managed by its Board of Directors.

Section 5.2. Number, tenure and qualifications. The Board of Directors shall be comprised of twenty Directors, elected as follows: the membership of the six regions (1: Mountains; 2: Charlotte Area; 3: Triad; 4: Triangle and Fayetteville; 5: Northeast; and 6: Southeast) shall, at the Annual Meeting of Members, also known as the Spring Membership Meeting, or Say-So Saturday, elect three Directors from each region for a one year term. These eighteen will then serve with that Co-Chair and that Secretary or Treasurer who were elected in the prior year and have one year remaining, for a total of twenty Directors.

This Board will meet in connection with a Board of Directors Orientation Weekend and on the last day thereof elect from the eighteen newly elected Directors both a new Co-Chair and either a Secretary or Treasurer who would thereupon assume such office and serve (as Officer and Director) for a two year term.   The Secretary will be elected in even years, and the Treasurer will be elected in odd years. A Sergeant at Arms will also be elected annually from the eighteen newly elected Directors.

Each of the Directors shall have the right to vote on all matters brought before the Board of Directors.

Each newly elected director shall take office at the end of the Board of Directors Orientation Weekend which follows the annual meeting of directors (held in conjunction with Say-So Saturday in the spring) and shall serve until a successor is elected and qualifies or until death or resignation from office. A director may resign at any time by filing a written resignation with the secretary of SAYSO. Directors must qualify as and be regular members of SAYSO at the time of their election, but may serve out their elective term even if they might otherwise age-out of regular membership or change their state of residence, as long as they are able to continue to attend meetings.

Section 5.3. Meetings. A regular meeting of the Board of Directors shall be held immediately prior to and at the same place as the Annual Meeting of the Members of SAYSO, on the first Saturday in March, at such location in North Carolina as may be determined by the Board of Directors, without other notice than this Bylaw. All other meetings may be held in person or by telephone conference. The Board of Directors may provide, by resolution, for the holding of other regular or special meetings without other notice than such resolution, and will unless otherwise agreed have at least four meetings each year.

Special meetings may also be called by or at the request of the Co-Chairs or any twelve directors, such call to specify the time and place for the meeting.

Section 5.4. Quorum. A majority of the total number of directors fixed by Section 5.2 hereof shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business at any meeting of the Board of Directors. However, a majority of the directors present though less than a quorum may adjourn the meeting from time to time without further notice.

Section 5.5. Manner of acting. The act of a majority of the directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors.

Section 5.6. Vacancies. Any vacancy occurring on the Board of Directors with respect to elective positions (including Officer positions) shall be filled pending the next succeeding annual election by a two-thirds vote of the directors then in office. Except in the case of filling a vacancy for an officer position, the next highest vote getter from the region where the vacancy arises shall be the only name placed in nomination for such vacancy, unless such person is not then a duly qualified regular member or otherwise unavailable to serve, or unless more than two-thirds of the directors then in office consent to an additional nomination.

Section 5.7. Presumption of assent. A director of SAYSO who is present at a meeting of the Board of Directors or a committee thereof at which action on any Society matter is taken shall be presumed to have assented to the action taken unless such director enters a dissent in the minutes of the meeting or unless a written dissent to such action is filed by said director with the person acting as the secretary of the meeting before the adjournment thereof or shall forward such dissent by restricted certified mall to the Secretary of SAYSO immediately following the adjournment of the meeting. Such right to dissent shall not apply to a director who voted in favor of such action.

Section 5.8. Informal action without meeting. Any action required or permitted by the articles of incorporation or bylaws to be taken by the Board of Directors at a meeting or by resolution may be taken without a meeting if a consent in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by all of the directors then in office.

Article VI
Officers

Section 6.1. Co-Chairs. The Co-Chairs shall be filled by the election each year of a single Co-Chair, who shall be elected by the newly constituted Board of Directors to serve for a two year term. The Co-Chairs (or either of them) shall, when present, preside at all meetings of SAYSO and of the Board of Directors and shall have authority to sign, execute, and acknowledge, on behalf of SAYSO, those instruments provided in Article VII hereof and instruments necessary or proper to be executed in the course of SAYSO's regular business or which shall be authorized by resolution of the Board of Directors.   When convenient, the Co-Chairs may also be referred to as Co-Presidents.

The Co-Chairs shall make appointments to any special or standing committees and subcommittees created by action of the Board of Directors or general membership.

In general, the Co-Chairs shall perform all duties incident to the office of a corporation’s president and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to time.

In consultation with the Board of Directors, the Co-Chairs shall be responsible for preparing a program for the Annual Meeting.

Section 6.2. Secretary. The office of Secretary shall be an elective position, elected every other year (in even-numbered years) by the newly constituted Board of Directors, to serve for a two year term. The Secretary shall, with the assistance of the Executive Director (a) keep the minutes of the meetings of the general membership of SAYSO and of the Board of Directors in one or more books provided for that purpose; (b) see that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these Bylaws, Articles of Incorporation, or as required by law; (c) be custodian of SAYSO's records; (d) maintain the register of the post office address of members of each class; (e) certify resolutions; and (f) in general, perform all of the duties incident to the office of a corporation’s secretary, and have such other duties and exercise such other authority as from time to time may be delegated or assigned by the Co-Chair(s) or the Board of Directors. The Secretary may be covered by a fidelity bond in an amount determined by resolution of the Board of Directors.

Section 6.3. Treasurer. The office of treasurer shall be an elective position, elected every other year (in odd-numbered years) by the newly constituted Board of Directors, to serve for a two year term.   The Treasurer shall with the assistance of the Executive Director (a) have charge and custody and be responsible for all funds and securities of SAYSO, receive and give receipts for moneys due and payable to SAYSO from any source whatsoever, endorse and deposit all such moneys in the name of SAYSO in such banks, trust companies or other depositories as shall be designated by resolution of the Board of Directors; (b) function as principal accounting officer in charge of books of account, accounting records, and forms of SAYSO; (c) maintain adequate records of all assets, liabilities, and transactions of SAYSO; (d) obtain from other officers all reports needed for recording the general operation of SAYSO or for supervising and directing accounts; and (e) in general, perform all of the duties incident to the office of a corporation’s treasurer, and have such other duties and exercise such other authority as from time to time may be delegated or assigned by the Co-Chair(s) or the Board of Directors. The Treasurer may be covered by a fidelity bond in an amount determined by resolution of the Board of Directors.

Section 6.4. Sergeant at Arms. The office of Sergeant at Arms shall be an elective position, elected annually by the newly constituted Board of Directors, to serve for a one year term.   The Sergeant at Arms shall with the assistance of the Executive Director (a) be familiar with the applicable rules and assume responsibility for maintaining order at all meetings of the membership and/or the Board of Directors, (b) maintain the organizational scrapbook, and (c) have such other duties and exercise such other authority as from time to time may be delegated or assigned by the Co-Chair(s) or the Board of Directors.

Section 6.5. Replacement of Officers. In the event of death, incapacity or inability to serve of any of the corporate officers, the Board of Directors shall elect a replacement officer as provided in Section 5.6.

Section 6.6. Executive Director. SAYSO shall contract with any qualified individual, firm, agency, or other organization to provide a central administrative office. In connection with providing the office, the contracting organization may designate an employee to serve as Executive Director of SAYSO. The Executive Director shall, (a) assume certain of the powers, duties and responsibilities typically allocated to secretary or treasurer; (b) provide responses or referrals to general inquiries, handle routine correspondence to and from SAYSO officers, committees and members, and initiate other correspondence as directed by SAYSO officers; (c) provide administrative and promotional support for SAYSO's Annual Meeting to include securing facilities and services for the Annual Meeting at a site and within a budget determined by the board; (d) act as an ex-officio member of the SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee, (e) act as a liaison with other associations; and (f) in general, perform all of the duties incident to the office of Executive Director and have such other duties and exercise such other authority as from time to time may be delegated or assigned by the Co-Chair(s) or the Board of Directors. The Executive Director may be covered by a fidelity bond in an amount determined by resolution of the Board of Directors.

Section 6.7. Appointments. As an operating procedure, the Board of Directors may reach agreements with appointees to the position of Executive Director for appointments of one to five years, with the provision for an evaluation preceding reappointment each year and a performance
review at the end of any such term of appointment if an additional term is being considered. All appointments or contracts shall be subject to the advice (review by) and consent (approval) of (a majority of) the SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee.

Article VII
Members’ Elections of Directors

Section 7.1. Nominations. Nominations shall be accepted from the floor during separate regional caucuses conducted during the election portion of the agenda at the Annual Meeting, whereupon all nominees shall certify their eligibility to serve, and have be allotted a reasonable time (four minutes, unless the Co-Chairs determine otherwise) to make a statement to the other members from their region in support of their candidacy. Three Ballots shall be distributed to each regular member, to be cast in writing for the election of Directors from their region. The names of all nominated candidates shall be listed in a conspicuous place, but write-in votes shall also be permitted.

Section 7.2. Counts. The ballots shall be collected and counted on site by current or former officers not seeking re-election, or by adult volunteers, as may be appointed by the Co-Chairs, and the ballots shall be placed in separate sealed envelopes, one for each reason, with the results of the count certified by such teller as may have been appointed by the Co-Chairs.

Article VIII
SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee

Section 8.1. Numbers; Appointments; Term. This special class of membership (the Committee) shall consist of at least four, and no more than eight, adult individuals, selected from time to time by the Board of Directors in the manner hereinafter described, who can provide dependable, committed and enthusiastic support, and advice, to SAYSO. No member of the Committee shall be required to pay dues. Whenever the Committee shall have less than four members, or whenever the Board may determine that additional members (not to exceed an aggregate Committee total of eight) should be appointed, candidates for the Committee shall or may be identified and interviewed by the Board and appointed to the Committee for a two year term, but only upon the unanimous agreement of the Board of Directors. Members may also be reappointed upon expiration of any term, in the discretion of the Board. Committee members may also be removed, prior to the expiration of their appointed term, only upon the unanimous act of the Board of Directors. The Executive Director shall also serve as an ex-officio member of the Committee.

Section 8.2 Meetings. The SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee will ordinarily meet at the same times and places as the Board of Directors.

Section 8.3 Advice and Consent; Additional Responsibilities. The SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee is given special rights respecting advice and consent to Board actions, as otherwise set forth in Sections 6.7 and 14.3 herein. Additional responsibilities of the SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee, such as may involve a general advisory role, accompaniment to workshops and conferences, or the providing of transportation, will be determined by the Committee in consultation with, and subject to the approval of, the Board of Directors.

Article IX
Society Business Transactions

Section 9.1. Endorsement of stock certificates. Any share or shares of stock issued by any corporation and owned by the corporation may, for sale or transfer, be endorsed in the name of SAYSO by the Co-Chairs, or either of them, subject to specific directions as to such sale or transfer by the Board of Directors.

Section 9.2. Voting of shares. Any share or shares of stock issued by any corporation and owned by the corporation may be voted at any shareholders' meeting of such corporation in person or by proxy by the Co-Chairs, or either of them.

Section 9.3. Deposits. All funds of SAYSO not otherwise employed shall be deposited from time to time to the credit of SAYSO in such banks, trust companies, or other depositories as may be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors.

Section 9.4. Execution of deeds, mortgages and releases. All deeds, conveyances, leases and mortgages of real property made by SAYSO shall be executed by the Co-Chairs, or either of them, and all releases of mortgages, liens, judgments, and other claims that are required by law to be made a matter of record may be executed by the Co-Chairs, or either of them, in each case only pursuant to specific approval of such action by resolution of the Board of Directors..

Section 9.5. Negotiable instruments. Unless otherwise determined by action of the Board of Directors, all checks, drafts, notes, bonds, bills of exchange, and orders for the payment of money of SAYSO must be signed by any one or more of the Co-Chairs or the treasurer, and by the Executive Director.

Section 9.6. Borrowing money. The treasurer may borrow money up to a maximum total amount of $1,000, with the consent of the Executive Director, but without further Board of Directors authorization, and may pledge as security therefor stocks and securities of SAYSO as required.

Section 9.7. Purchase and sale contracts. Unless otherwise determined by action of the Board of Directors, the Co-Chairs shall have the authority to enter into written or oral contracts for the purchase and sale of goods and services on behalf of SAYSO, and the secretary (or treasurer) may enter into written or oral contracts for the purchase of supplies, postage, printing services, and other goods and services reasonably related to operation of the office of secretary (or treasurer), only with the express approval and joinder of the Executive Director. The Executive Director may enter into written or oral contracts for the purchase and sale of goods and services reasonably related to the operation of the central office and duties assigned to the Executive Director.

Section 9.8. Indemnification. It is intended that the directors, officers and employees or agents of the corporation shall not have personal financial responsibility for the corporation's expenses. The corporation shall accordingly have power to indemnify to the fullest extent permitted by law any present or former director, officer, employee or agent, including any person engaged in corporation business through committee service or otherwise, expenses and costs (including attorney's fees and judgments or fines) actually and necessarily incurred by him in connection with the defense or settlement action, suit or proceeding to which he is made a party by reason of his being or having been such official, except in relation to matters as to which he shall be finally adjudged to be liable for willful misconduct amounting to bad faith. Such indemnification shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those indemnified may be entitled apart from the provision of this By-Law. The corporation shall have the power to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf on any person who is or was an official of the corporation against any liability asserted against such official arising out of his status as an official.

Article X
Fiscal Year

Section 10.1. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the association shall be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors, from time to time.

Article X
Procedures for Meetings

Section 11.1. Parliamentary authority. The rules contained in Roberts' Rules of Order Revised shall govern meetings of the membership and meetings of the Board of Directors in all cases in which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these Bylaws, the Articles of Incorporation, or applicable law.

Article XII
Appropriations and Expenses

Section 12.1. Annual budget. The Board of Directors shall approve the annual budget for the association, which approval shall constitute authorization for expenditure.

Article XIII
Committees

Section 13.1. Special committees. There shall be such special committees as the Board of Directors shall, from time to time, create by resolution. The Co-Chairs, upon the advice of the Board of Directors, shall appoint the chairperson and all members of special committees for one-year terms.

Section 13.2. Ad hoc committees. The Co-Chairs may, from time to time, create ad hoc committees, whose existence shall terminate with the expiration of the Co-Chairs' term of office, but may be extended by the succeeding Co-Chairs so long as the committee is not in existence more than three years.

Section 13.3. Travel expenses for committee activities. Committees may incur travel expenses in connection with their assignments only as specifically authorized by action of the Board of Directors except that the Executive Director may, at his or her discretion, authorize travel expenses for an individual member in clearly unusual circumstances. In general, the association does not assume responsibility for travel or other expenses associated with committee activities.

Article XIV
Amendments

Section 14.1. Amendment By Board of Directors. These Bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the members of the Board of Directors at a meeting in which a quorum is present and at which the same is voted on.

Section 14.2. Membership Opportunity for Discussion of Bylaw Amendments.   While the Members are not entitled to vote on bylaw amendments, the Board of Directors will not, in the absence of compelling need, vote to adopt a bylaw amendment without there having first been some presentation to the membership and opportunity for discussion, in at least general terms, respecting the amendment or the need for an amendment, at an Annual Meeting of the Members. This requirement of an opportunity for membership discussion in general terms shall not require that all of the details of an amendment shall have been presented to the membership for discussion, it being understood that the Board of Directors shall have the discretion to resolve any potential differences in opinion respecting an amendment, or the need for an amendment, through creative negotiations, and that the good faith determination of the Co-Chairs that the required opportunity for membership discussion has been satisfied shall be conclusive on the matter.

Section 14.3. Advice and Consent Required for Certain Amendments. Notwithstanding the foregoing, these Bylaws may not be amended to eliminate or otherwise modify the role of the Executive Director, or the SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee, or the terms of such special membership, in either case without the advice and consent of (a majority of) the SAYSO Adult Advisory Committee.

Access Downloadable copy here of SaySo's by-laws:

http://www.saysoinc.org/uploads/assets/SaySo By-laws (2011)(1).pdf

Camellia Network: A Support Net(work) for Youth Aging Out of Foster Care

Camellia Network harnesses the power of new technology to connect youth "aging out" of the foster care system with a community of resources, opportunities, encouragement and support. Youth have profiles on the site, giving them a place to express themselves, share their goals for the future, and articulate what they need to be successful. Individuals and companies from across the country are able to collectively provide the support these young people need by offering up doses of encouragement, career advice, professional connections, and financial support to help them navigate their way into adulthood. This innovative platform is the first of its kind in the child welfare sector.
https://camellianetwork.org/

Things People Never Told Me

When you Transition Out of foster care
and start living on your own, there are
some things in life that
people seem to forget
to tell you about!

Thanks to the people at pathwaysrtc for answering alot of the questions you might have forgotten to ask! The Things People Never Told Me is available here just click

Brunswick County

Brunswick County Local Chapter was established in July 2012

Contact

Kalyn DenBleyker, SaySo Regional Assistant for Region 6 Email: [email protected]

Soap & More for SaySo
Strong Able Youth Speaking Out
November 26 - December 4

**Donated hygiene items will go to foster children who are in the care of Brunswick County DSS.**

Recommended items include, but are not limited to:

Soap - any kind! (i.e. hand soap, bars of soap, body wash, hand sanitizer)

Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Mouthwash, Floss

Shampoo & Conditioner

Feminine Products

Brushes & Combs

Hair Products

Nail Clippers

Deodorant

Face wash

Loofah

Lotion

Q-tips

Collection bins for donations will be located at

North Brunswick High School,

East Columbus High School,

Brunswick County DSS and

Health Department,

the Brunswick County Courthouse Guardian ad Litem office, and

First Baptist Church of Leland.

If there are any questions contact Renee Walker at (910) 253-2384

Credentials

Credentials for Youth: Success in the 21st Century

Credentials tell employers that you have skills - measurable skills that can earn you employment or advance in an occupation.

A recent study based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data found that by 2018, more than two-thirds of the 47 million projected job openings will require some level of postsecondary education or training, including industry certification. For employers, credentials demonstrate and document skills, enhancing their ability to fill skilled positions, identify talent pipelines, and compete. For youth, credentials can improve their labor market experience leading to higher earnings, greater mobility, and enhanced job security.

Learn how to get credentials

Steps to Help Youth Attain Credentials in High Demand Occupations

Local examples of Programs Helping Youths Attain Credentials

Clarification between ETV and NC REACH

CLARIFICATION ABOUT ETV AND NCREACH APPLICATIONS

We come across many students that are under the impression that the ETV and NCReach applications are one in the same. This is NOT accurate, and can put a hold on their funding.

If applicable, students need to fill out BOTH, ETV and NCReach applications, once a year. Their login info is the same for both:
• ETV - http://www.statevoucher.org
• NCReach - http://www.ncreach.org

Note - the two applications merge together in our system, therefore, updates only need to be done once.

The forms needed are the SAME and needed each semester funded:
• Financial Aid Release Form - student fills out the top, and school fills out the rest and faxes to us
• Budget Sheet - student fills out form and faxes back to us
• Participation Agreement - student reads, understands, signs and faxes back to us.

Please share this information along with new students and those already in the system. Some do tend to forget from one year to the next.
Remember, we are always available for questions or concerns.

Tracy Clary - [email protected]
Meg Clohan - [email protected]
Wendy Kiser - [email protected]

America's College Fund for Foster Youth

www.fc2success.org

www.statevoucher.org

www.ncreach.org

Bill of Rights

Is Here!!!

SaySo, with support from the NC Division of Social Services, has finished our Foster Youth of NC Bill of Rights and also a NC Siblings Bill of Rights.
The SaySo Board of Directors formally endorsed both “Bills” on December 8, 2012, and we are advocating for the documents to be endorsed by the NC General Assembly.
The process has been ongoing as the SaySo Legislative Pages have annually reviewed Foster Youth Bill of Rights endorsed by other states. This past summer, Titianna G., NCDSS Summer Intern and former SaySo Board member, combined the documents to formulate drafts which were then reviewed by the current SaySo Board of Directors and approved.

To Download Click

Foster Youth of North Carolina Bill of Rights

To Download Click

NC Siblings Bill of Rights

Casey Life Skills

Casey Life Skills

As of September 30, 2012, the Ansell-Casey Life Skills Assessment is no longer available. The Casey Life Skills assessment will be used instead.

This assessment can be used online or on a printed version of the assessment.

A Guidebook and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) are available to assist with learning the new assessment.

Some of the basics:

Agency and worker accounts via CLS

Each county creates their own profile.
Each LINKS worker creates their own log in – connect to the Agency Profile.
If other agency workers create a log in, they should also connect to the Agency Profile, and be aware they too would have access to other youth CLS records.
If the agency selects a central administrator (like the LINKS Coordinator), you can invite co-workers from your agency profile page.

How to use the CLS Assessment – the Basics:

Go to www.caseylifeskills.org
Click “Create a free account” or “sign in”
Click the youth you want to review or “Add New Youth”: Enter first, last and Date of Birth
Locate youth in log and determine how the CLS will be administered:
- a. You can then either start/return to an assessment on line right away
- b. Send youth an email to start the assessment online at their location.
- c. Print a blank form of the assessment
- d. Youth creates their own account (See Complete Guidebook for Instructions)
Which Youth assessment? CLS must be completed by youth. (Other youth assessment options may need to be considered especially for youths younger than age 13 or with special consideration, i.e., homelessness.) Other options are at youth and worker discretion.
Choose the assessment and agree to the security terms. (Worker will be logged out at this time for youth to complete assessment if this option is chosen.)
The assessment can be saved and exited at any time.
As questions are answered, youths will move through seven areas (Daily Living, Self-care, Relationships & Communications, Housing & Money Management, Work & Study Life, Career & Education, and Looking Forward).
A Caregiver can be invited to take the assessment only AFTER the youth has completed their assessment. Caregivers can take the assessment in one of three ways:
A Comparison Report will be prepared once the Caregiver assessment is complete.

SaySo Survivor VII May 2012

SaySo Survivor VII - Tony Brazil's Presentation

SaySo Survivor is an annual leadership retreat focused on identifying, using and sharing your resiliencies.

In May 2012, Tony Brazil (former foster youth and current businessman) presented his take on resiliencies.

If you'd like to get in touch with Tony or learn more about SaySo Survivor, please email [email protected] or call 800-820-0001

View Tony's Presentation on Determination

Social Networking

What's Up with Social Media?

This presentation was originally developed by two SaySo members who also served as summer interns in 2011 with the Division of Social Services. At the time, administrators wanted some guidance on how to use social media, dangers, and benefits to using with foster youths. It has since been presented several times in North Carolina to both youths and adults (professionals and caregivers) to help facilitate discussions and clear up assumptions.

This presentation also made its national debute in September 2012 at the National Independent Living Association (NILA) Conference in Atlanta. Over 50 people attended this workshop which was lively, engaging and helped everyone discuss their concerns and need to develop guidelines for both professionals and youths in care.

If you would like a SaySo youth(s) to present this workshop to your youth or adult audience, please email [email protected] or call 800-820-0001.

View Social Media

Bridging the Gap

Bridging the Gap Workshop

This workshop is a PowerPoint presentation and interactive activites, combined to help youths build their support system.

Youth will learn to ask the tough questions when it comes to "who can you count on?"

This presentation was originally made at the National Independent Living Association (NILA) Conference in Atlanta, September 2012 to a larger youth audience. It was engaging and well received.

For more information about this workshop or to have a SaySo member present this with your group, please contact [email protected] or call 800-820-0001

View Bridging the Gap

In Honor of Makeisha Williams

Our 2012 MADD was in honor of Makeisha A. Williams who passed away Friday, August 3, 2012. Makeisha served on the Board of Directors from 2003-2006 and was elected twice to the NILA Board of Directors as a youth representative. She was also awarded National Youth of the Year in 2005. Makeisha continues to live on through SaySo as she encouraged foster youths to complete their education and provided the inspiration for our annual Make a Difference Day "Give a Child a Smile" suitcase collection event since 2004. Makeisha we know you will continue to watch out for our members. Thank you for touching our lives so sweetly - you will be missed.

Youth Guide for Psychotropic Medications

NEW for youth to help guide your decisions around medications.

What you can expect to find in this guide:

• Recognizing you need help
• Knowing your rights about your health and who can help you make decisions
• Considering your options, including helpful approaches other than medication
• Making decisions about how best to stay healthy
• Maintaining treatment (taking medication safely and continuing or stopping treatment after leaving foster care)

Making Health Choices: A Guide on Psychotropic Medications for Youth in Foster Care

Flyer for Youth

Flyer for Professionals

Ruth Anne White

Ruth Anne White, MSSA: Executive Director, National Center for Housing and Child Welfare

Ruth White is one of the nation’s leading experts on the nexus between housing policy and child welfare. She is co-founder and Executive Director of the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare and former director of Housing and Homelessness for the Child Welfare League of America (CWLA). In 2004, White co-edited the landmark issue of the League’s journal, Child Welfare, documenting best practices to bring affordable housing resources to families and youth in the child welfare system. Prior to joining CWLA, White managed the front-door family shelter and worked as a case manager in Columbus, OH. Ms. White is also a HUD Certified Assisted Housing Manager.
Ms. White has a Master of Science Degree in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Ohio State University. She is a doctoral candidate and Furfey Scholar at the National Catholic School of Social Service at Catholic University of America and an assistant professor of social work at Gallaudet University. Ms. White was recently appointed to the American Bar Association’s Council on Homeless Children.

Mark Kroner

Mark J. Kroner LISW: Director, Lighthouse Training Institute

Mark Kroner is the Director of the Lighthouse Training Institute. Mark recently left his job as director of the Independent Living Services for Lighthouse, a position he has held since 1986. Mark has worked with thousands of young people in the Child Welfare and homeless youth systems.
Mr. Kroner is a licensed independent social worker who has also worked in the field as a social worker, a group home director, a group trainer and a consultant. He served in the Peace Corps in Zaire (Congo), Africa in the early 80s. Mr. Kroner served on the National Independent Living Standards Committee of the Child Welfare League of America and the Ohio State Independent Living Task Force. He has published numerous articles & workbooks focusing on housing and self-sufficiency development. He served as the president of the Ohio Independent Living Association in 1995-96. Mark has spoken extensively around the country on independent living issues and has helped dozens of agencies start and develop housing related transitional programs.
Mark received his BA in Psychology in 1973 and his Masters in Social Work Degree in June, 1997 after being awarded the Midwest Region Scholarship Award from the CWLA. Mark testified before the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Services concerning the Foster Care Independence Act of 1999 and was invited to attend the signing of the bill, where one of his program’s youth spoke on behalf of American foster youth and introduced President Clinton.
His books “Housing Options for Independent Living” and “Moving In: Ten Successful IL/TLPs” provide a summary of what is going on around the country related to housing youth leaving care. Mark received the National Independent Living Association’s Founder’s Award in 2000. Lighthouse won the 2003 NILA Organization of the Year Award.

Iredell County

Iredell County Local Chapter was established in November 2011.

Adult Supporter Contact

Shayna Rouson: [email protected]

General

Make a Difference Day

“With our heartfelt gratitude & most sincere appreciation, SaySo would like to thank the Eaton Corporation in Raleigh, NC for sponsoring our 2012 Make A Difference Day.
Your kindness & generosity really did “Give A Child A Smile”!

Page Week

SaySo Survivors

SaySo Saturdays

I just wanted to tell you all that Saturday’s event was terrific, in fact maybe the best ever. I was very impressed and everyone should be proud of their efforts in putting this event together. I also think the state folks who attended were as impressed as I was after viewing the days activities. Thank You very much one and all! - William V. Griffin M.S.W., M.P.A., CEO, Independent Living Resources, Inc.

SaySo Saturday and our 15th Birthday will go on record as THE best conference ever!! The SaySo staff and Board of Directors did an exceptional job! Shout outs to George Duvall and Melinda Medina for adding to this amazing day! And to everyone who attended (record crowd) - you were awesome and the reason SaySo continues to be strong! Well done everyone!!! - Nancy Carter

Link up

It’s My Transition

Angie (Social Worker) -"I wanted to let you know my two young men thoroughly enjoyed their day with you yesterday. They could not stop talking about it on our two hour ride back home. One had been to the March say-so sat and he really liked the smaller amount of kids. The other young man had never been on a trip with us and I was hesitant about allowing him to attend. He did fine.Tthanks again for a wonderful day with say-so,You are making a difference in young peoples lives."

What They Are Saying

We love throwing these events for you guys, and we also love hearing about them from you. So let us know how you feel. Send us your comments about our events [email protected].

Health Care Power of Attorney

What is a Health Care Power of Attorney?

A health care power of attorney is a document that allows you to choose a person who will have the authority to make health care decisions for you if you are unconscious, mentally incompetent, or otherwise unable to make decisions.

A health care power of attorney will stay in effect forever, unless you name a new person, or you specify a date for it to end.

Why Do I need a Health Care Power of Attorney?

There may be times that you are unable to participate in making decisions about your health and will need someone to do that. Consider this: You are in an accident and become unconscious. Someone will need to consult with the physicians and consent to your medical treatment AND it can't be you.

If you do not have, or want a relative to make those decisions, you will benefit from having a health care power of attorney or health proxy. This allows you to choose who will make those decisions. They could be decisions around surgery or proceedures, medicines, or next steps to take. The main point is you have the option to name YOUR health care power of attorney and not leave these decisions to chance.

How Do I name someone to be my Health Care Power of Attorney?

Before leaving care, speak with your social worker about "executing a health care power of attorney" document. This document is legal and recognized by the state. Name this person in the document.

Be sure to select someone you trust. It could be a friend or relative or a lawyer. Anybody could be given this authority. The main thing is that the person you choose not abuse this power and will look out for your best interests.

Stand Up: Speak Out! (Raise the Age Stories Needed)

2011 Newsletters

2011 - Volume 12
(Please click the issue you would like to view)

Issue 1 - January
Issue 2 - March
Issue 3 - May
Issue 4 - July
Issue 5 - September
Issue 6 - November (Includes MADD report)

Holidays - SaySo Style

During the December Board meeting, SaySo members find an unusual way to celebrate.

This year, Chaney Claus came riding into the meeting on a fully decorated John Deer! (Rudolph wasn't available this year!)

Partnership with the United Way

SaySo has partnered with the United Way of the Greater Triangle to help raise funds for their new initiative to help increase financial stability for foster youths in Orange, Durham, Wake and Johston counties. Funds raised will be used to help match youths' savings as they progress through the financial literacy training and meet goals.

Team Tocqueville (United Way funders group) sponsored an event at Hasentree Golf Course (September 2011) and afternoon tea at the Washington-Duke Inn (November 2011) to help educate participants in the transitional needs of foster youths and how financial stability is a huge obstacle to a successful transition.

Other events are planned for 2012 and beyond to help sustain the program.

Marcella and Chaney speak at the Tocqueville Tea

Marcella and Chaney speak at the Tocquevill Tea with support from Lauren.

Transition

Transitioning from foster care is not as easy as it seems.

It requires planning and lots of preparation.

The Foster Club has a Transition Toolkit that will help you anticipate the bumps in the road and what you can do now. It thoroughly reviews the areas (domains) necessary for a successful transition. Use it and you won't miss a thing!

A Permanency Pact is also available. The Pact will make you think of all the areas where you will need support through your transition and secure the assistance of adults in your life as you make that transition.

Check it out!

iSAYSO

"iSAYSO because... I matter... and so do you!"

Watch our "iSaySo video" @

This page is all about you and what you have to say. It includes poetry, stories, raps and testimonials from SaySo members, alumni, and supporters.

Feel free to submit your original work to [email protected]

Enjoy and please give credit to those who have been willing to share their thoughts with you.

A Forgotten Child (Savannah H)

A Return to Love (Marianne W.)

Able Youth Speaking Out (Daniel C.)

Different (Jen P.)

Failures (Makeisha W.)

I Miss You (Chad F.)

Jackie Can Rhyme (Jackie F.)

NO Fairytale Ending (Keyona R.)

Ode to My Youth (Jackie B.)

Our Biggest Fear (Marianne W.)

Our History Together (Casey H.)

Sadly Forgotten (Keyona R.)

The Red Flood (Amber S.)

We Gotta Start Loving (Lisa W.)

Why are Fathers Important? (Donisha A.)

Special Additions

***Contributed by Operation Healthy Family (OHF) co-produced with Level Ground, this song "Place to Place" is dedicated to those foster youths who have aged out of foster care onto the streets homeless with no education or employment. (click the song to see the YouTube video). It speaks about the issues of teens who age out of the foster care system. Four teens featured in the video have recently aged out of foster care and are apart of The Mocking Bird Society a foster care advocacy group. OHF wanted to help shed light on the foster care system and the growing epidemic of foster youth who age out of foster care.

***North Carolina's own Jimmy Wayne grew up in foster care and has become a nationally known country singer. Many of SaySo youths have met him at statewide events. Check out his song called Paper Angels on YouTube about the children named on the Angel Trees found in area malls during the holidays. He has also written a book about this song.

How to get your credit report

Get a Credit Report!

Foster Youths are at HIGH risk of identity fraud!

A new law just passed that required every youth in foster care age 16 and older must have a credit report every year while in foster care! It started September 30, 2011

Click here for a copy of the entire law. The section on credit reports for foster youths is at the top of page 6 under "Case Plan and Case Review System."

Why get a credit report?

This is a great law because foster youths are at high risk of identity theft! While in foster care, any number of people who have access to your personal information (such as social security number and birthdate) can open accounts and run up debt or stop paying bills using your name without your knowledge.

This is a BIG problem when it is time for you to transition to the adult world. Businesses and companies will run a credit check on you before you rent an apartment, get cable, buy a car, open a cell phone account and things like that. If you have bad credit, they can deny you services or ask for a large deposit to cover the cost of the service in case you don't pay your bill.

What will a credit report tell me?

Each credit report (there are three agencies that provide credit reports) will give you a full report. The report will list times when your information was provided to open an account. This will include things like opening an store credit card, a cell phone account, student loan, and things like that. Be sure the information is correct. The new law says your social worker needs to help you understand what the report says and help you resolve any inconsistencies in the report. Resolve this before transitioning from foster care. This is your life so be sure to talk to your social worker about it, understand it, and get your report cleared up early.

How do I get a FREE credit report?

You may go to Federal Trade Commission for a list of FAQ's.

***This online process is only for ages 18 and older. Minors cannot receive credit reports online it must be done in writing. Agencies need to provide proof of guardianship to get a minor's credit report. (See addresses below)

Go to www.AnnualCreditReport.com
Select State and click "Request Report"
Fill out the form - including your Social Security number, date of birth, and so on...
Click "Continue"
You are then taken to a page that lists all three reporting agencies - click the check box for all three names
You will be led through each agency
You will be able to see, save, and/or print the reports
You can only get a FREE credit report ONCE per year (or it will cost you) so figure out a good time to do this annually - like your birthday.

The reports will also tell you what to do to resolve any false or inconsistent information.

Credit Reports for Minors:

Requests for credit reports for minors must be done in writing. Be sure to include the name, address and social security number of the person for whom your requesting the report and proof of guardianship.

Annual Credit Report Request Service

P.O. Box 105281

Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

New LAW! Foster youths MUST get Credit Reports!

How to Find and Keep a Job

(Taken from the “The Pocket Guide to Independent Living,” ILR, Inc.)

Getting a Job:

I. Where to look?

a. Newspapers – Classified Ads

b. Employment Security Commission

See telephone book for address
Computer browsing of available jobs in a given area
Counselors will help

c. Employment Agencies

Fee is usually required
Some employment agencies deal only with temporary placements

d. Friends, neighbors, or relatives

II. How to begin to get a job

a. Call, write for, or pick up an APPLICATION

b. Complete all parts of the application

Use black ink
Keep it neat
Spell everything correctly
Provide complete and accurate information

c. Return application promptly and in good condition (not wrinkled, torn or spotted)

d. Make a follow up call in about a week if you have not heard from the company

Interviewing Tips:

III. Having a good interview

a. Shower, shave (if appropriate), wash hair, and brush teeth before going for interviews

b. Do not chew gum or smoke

c. Dress in clean, neatly pressed, appropriate clothing and clean, polished shoes

d. Arrive at least 5 minutes early (never late)

e. Inform secretary or receptionist of your presence and purpose

f. Greet interviewer politely

g. Offer to handshake only if the interviewer extends hand first

h. Wait to be told to be seated

i. Answer all questions in complete sentences

Always give honest answers
Maintain eye contact
Smile often
Use proper grammar (no slang or vulgarity)
Keep answers to the point and in response to what was asked

j. Do not touch things in office or on the desk

k. Keep feet on the floor

l. Try to hold questions until asked if you have any

Keeping a Job

IV. Helpful hints for keeping a job

a. DEPENDABLE

Report to work when scheduled
Arrive on time/leave as allowed
Keep sick time to a minimum
Call in when ill
Request time off as early as possible

b. Do QUALITY work

Do job to exact specifications
Correct mistakes
Do assigned jobs completely
Do not be careless
Never think that “Close enough is good enough”
Take pride in doing each job well

c. Maintain a POSITIVE ATTITUDE

Be cheerful
Be cooperative
Accept requests willingly
Offer positive comments

d. Develop good COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Learn to express feelings in words
Describe situations accurately and clearly
Talk out problems and concerns

Changing Jobs

V. When to change jobs

a. When your hours/pay are not enough

b. When problems at present job cannot be resolved to mutual satisfaction

c. When the work you are doing is no longer satisfying

d. When you have an opportunity to advance with another company

e. When home and work are too far apart

VI. How to change jobs properly

a. Give notice of intent to employer

Minimum two weeks/Maximum 30 days

b. Leave on good terms

May need to use present employer as a reference

c. Return all work items provided by employer

d. Give forwarding address so that final paychecks, W-2 forms, etc., can be sent

Gaston County

Gaston County Local Chapter was established in August 2011.

Adult Supporter Contact

Tiyania Shands [email protected]

Gaston county is inviting surrounding counties in our region to join us for our SAYSO groups. We hold them every other Monday from 5-6:30pm at Gaston county DSS. The upcoming dates are:

April 22, 2013
May 6, 2013
May 20, 2013

Please call to let us know how many are planning to attend.
704-862-7609 or 704-862-7689

Randolph County

Randolph County Local Chapter was established in July 2011.

Adult Supporter Contact

Katy Garris [email protected]

Phone: 910-274-6196

Meeting Times:

Our local chapter meets the SECOND TUESDAY of each month at 6:30 PM (Our LINKS meeting follows around 7:00 PM)

We welcome youths from surrounding counties as well if you do not have a local chapter.

What we are doing?

For Make a Difference Day, we started a on-going project of collecting clothing and necessity items for both children and youth for when they come into foster care..

We have been visiting local churches and speaking to groups about being a foster parent.

Pitt County

Pitt County Local Chapter was established in March 2010.

Adult Supporter Contact

Shante Carson [email protected]

Nazareth & Rowan County

Nazareth Children's Home and Rowan County Local Chapter was established in March 2010.

Adult Supporter Contact

Donna Cagler (Nazareth) [email protected]

Tisha Warren (Rowan) [email protected]

Halifax County

Halifax County Local Chapter was established in March 2011.

Adult Supporter Contact

Kathy Richardson [email protected]

Forsyth County

Forsyth County Local Chapter was established in September 2010.

Adult Supporter Contact

Carmelita Burrel [email protected]

Durham County

Durham County Local Chapter was established in March 2010.

Adult Supporter Contact

Fantasia Johnson [email protected]

Craven County

Craven County Local Chapter was established in November 2009.

Adult Supporter Contact

Hollyanne Trombley [email protected]

Robeson County

Robeson County Local Chapter was established in March 2009.

Adult Supporter Contact

Ghee Johnson [email protected]

Union County

Union County Local Chapter was established in March 2009.

Adult Supporter Contact

Angie Mallard [email protected]

The next Union County LINKS peer group meeting will be held next Thursday June 6, 2013 5pm-7pm at Union County DSS 1212 West Roosevelt Blvd. Monroe NC. The topic will be “Careers” and we will have an attorney and airline pilot come speak. S.F. will have Say-So time at the end of the meeting. If you have any questions contact Angie Mallard at 704-296-4467.

Alamance County

Alamance County Local Chapter was established in March 2009.

Adult Supporter Contact

Jason Eberly [email protected]

Crossnore School

Crossnore School Local Chapter was established in March 2008.

Adult Supporter Contact

Maria Russell

Wayne County

Wayne County Local Chapter was established in March 2008.

Adult Supporter Contact

Octavia Muhammad

Orange County

Orange County Local Chapter was established in March 2006

Adult Supporter Contact

Rhonda Reese

Surry-Stokes Counties

Surry-Stokes Counties joined to establish their local chapter in September 2005.

Adult Supporter Contact

Andrea Brandon and Mark Fuhrman

Catawba County

Catawba County Local Chapter was established in July 2004.

Adult Supporter Contact

Sarah Saleet

Onslow County

Onslow County Local Chapter was established in March 2004.

Adult Supporter Contact

LeRae Burroughs

Guilford County

Guilford County Local Chapter was established in July 2002.

Adult Supporter Contact

Sheletha Stewart

Cumberland County

Cumberland County Local Chapter was established in March 2002.

Adult Supporter Contact

Pamela Burch

Wake County

Wake County Local Chapter was established in March 2002.

Currently inactive

Caldwell County

Caldwell County Local Chapter was established in September 2001.

Currently inactive

Mecklenburg County

Mecklenburg County Local Chapter was established in September 2001.

Adult Supporter Contact

Tricia Nielson

Moore County

Moore County Local Chapter was established in January 2001. SaySo's first local chapter!

Adult Supporter Contact:

LeAnne McKoy

Moore County engaged in a dual day of service and social. We started the day packaging school supplies with the Back Pack Pals program of Moore County that provides these supplies to homeless/displaced youth in the school system. We packaged over 50 backpacks with notebooks, pencils, pens, pencil boxes, rulers, glue sticks, folders and personal hygiene products. Our day was concluding by overcoming some fears visiting the Woods of Terror in Greensboro. I was determined that I wasn’t going in because someone needed to guard the van, but by the end I did brave through it. It wasn’t that bad.-Leann Mckoy

SaySo Local Chapters

Local Chapter Information

SaySo is thrilled to have so many local chapters already developed. See the list of local chapters in the navigation bar. Click to see what is happening with the local chapter in your area. Local chapters can submit their news or update their current contact information by emailing [email protected] We are happy to also include approved pictures.

If a local chapter does not exist in your region, click here to download the Local Chapter Start Up Kit.

Benefits of a Local Chapter

Local Chapter development is important in North Carolina because we have a "state supervised, county administered foster care system." This means that the state advises the services at the county level but that counties are permitted to determine how policies and regulations are governed in their area. What this means is that what one county requires for a CARS (Contractual Agreement for Residential Services) agreement may differ from another county. A local chapter has the ability to discuss such issues with their local administrators to help make decisions that are best for the young people in that county. The State SaySo Board of Directors does not have influence at the county level - but we can sure help get you to the right people to speak to!!

Also, it is easier to have more frequent meetings in a local area instead of waiting for the next SaySo event. Some local chapters meet either before or after the county LINKS meeting. Some chapters are a combination of a county DSS group and a private group home. Any combination can work.

What do I need to start a local chapter?

The interest in starting a chapter needs to come from the young people. One or two is all it takes to generate interest. The SaySo Board of Directors can send a youth to speak with a local group of young people to share what local chapters can do and how they have benefited from such a group. No worries... SaySo will help you through the process. OH.... you also need to select an Adult Supporter and provide that contact information to SaySo. Adult Supporters do just that... support you and the group as it develops, helps get the word out to other young people in the area, and helps to find a central location for meeting. Most adult supporters are LINKS coordinators, social workers, mentors, residential staff, foster parents, and GAL's but it can be any adult who the local youths have asked to help support their goals efforts.

How do we get our local chapter acknowledged by SaySo?

Once you have determined your local chapter membership and have elected your executive officers (such as President, Vice-president, Secretary, Treasurer), send those member names and officers, along with the contact of your Adult Supporter to the SaySo office. A certificate will be generated and mailed to you OR presented at the next SaySo Saturday Membership Conference. All local chapter are publically acknowledged at SaySo Saturday so be sure to attend!

1999-2000 Newsletters