Alicia

Independent Living Specialist

Alicia is Voices For Children’s Independent Living Specialist.

Alicia began her journey in child welfare by volunteering with the Eleventh Circuit Guardian ad Litem Office. She quickly realized her calling to serve victims and became a full time Child Advocate Manager.  Thereafter, in her work with the youth population, Alicia identified the need for specialized advocacy for teens and youth aging out of care; thus, the fruition of the Independent Living Specialist position.

As the Independent Living Specialist Alicia primarily focuses on key barriers that prevent successful transition out of foster care while also ensuring advocacy for youth extending foster care. She’s also responsible for intensive file reviews of selected youth, focusing on best practice milestones including the youth’s placement, referrals, services, and recent court findings to develop timelines to resolve identified barriers.

Alicia maintains certification as a Child Advocate Manager and Victim Service Practitioner. She currently serves on the Housing Committee to assist families and youth in the Fostering Youth to Independence and Family Unification Program. Additionally, Alicia serves as part of the selection committee for Citrus’s Youth Advisory Counsel.