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ASK-Y Minutes: 6/20/05

• Jim Theofelis - Mockingbird Society
• Valerie Douglas - City of Seattle
• Curtis Knopf - YouthCare
• Najja Taylor - Mockingbird Society
• Ashley Grant - Mockingbird Society
• Jamica Henderson - Mockingbird Society
• Larishica Asher - Mockingbird Society
• Courtney Konietzko - Mockingbird Society

The focus of the meeting was twofold: to discuss how the meetings and ASK-Y in general could increase its relevance to youth who attend; and about how to best connect with other advocacy coalitions within the Seattle area as well as across the state.

Youth were able to give some very good and concrete examples of how to ensure that ASK-Y is relevant and of interest to them. All of the youth were clear that once they had some experience with ASK-Y their understanding increased. Attending the ASK-Y Training Day and Advocacy Day both helped youth "get it" regarding the purpose and scope of ASK-Y. Youth reported that initially they felt lost in discussions and do not like the use of technical terms and acronyms. Many reported that having been to Olympia, they now understand the context of ASK-Y. They all seemed to really like the Advocacy Day event and feel ASK-Y is an opportunity to "have real power" and talk with decision makers about the "real world" for homeless youth and youth in foster care. They also reported liking the partnership between young people and adults/professionals.

Curtis reported liking the ASK-Y meetings precisely because youth are in attendance and that they have provided a major contribution through their input.

Jim resurfaced the idea of having youth serve as co-chair of ASK-Y either on an ongoing basis or have youth rotate the co-chair role. Discussion will continue on this. Courtney stated that she would be interested if she could get some training on the Chair role and responsibility.

Courtney suggested working on a Mission Statement for the coalition. Jim mentioned that to date ASK-Y has been sponsored by Mockingbird Society and that he is willing to explore plans that would take ASK-Y out of Mockingbird's structure and instead have it be an independent coalition. Most expressed an appreciation for Mockingbird's leadership and role with ASK-Y; however the topic is still open for discussion.

The group decided one strategy to increase involvement particularly for other youth would be to sponsor an Advocacy Training during the summer. Courntey and Jim will contact Nancy Amadei and determine her interest and availability to do a brief training at the next meeting: July 25, 2005.

• Outreach to other meetings and groups: Jim and Valerie will participate in this
• Food at meetings
• Develop a one pager on ASK-Y: Courtney
• Rotating meetings at other locations
• Having conference call capability
• Youth as Co-Chair
• Have providers who attend the meeting bring youth from their programs

The next meeting is scheduled for July 25th and the hope is to have a training on Advocacy.