Hearing the Real Voices of Youths Raised in Foster Care at the Experience Presentation: New Family Forms Nurtured by the Community

Understanding the Background of the Foster Care Experience Presentation

In Japan, October and November are recognized as "Foster Parent Month". In collaboration with the local municipalities, the nonprofit organization Key Assets (based in Higashi-Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture) is launching the "Foster Care Experience Presentation" event, aiming to promote understanding and increase awareness of the foster care system.

This initiative caters to children who, for various reasons, cannot live with their biological families. Key Assets is dedicated to ensuring that these children find nurturing homes that meet their individual needs. Their mission includes raising awareness about the foster care system and supporting both foster families and independent youths who have transitioned out of the system.

Event Details

The presentation will feature not only stories from current foster caregivers but also from young adults who have previously lived in foster homes. These individuals will share their insights on what life was like from both the perspective of a child and an adult, highlighting the joys, struggles, and bonds formed through foster care.

Attendees who are curious about becoming foster parents or want to comprehend the environment of foster homes will find this event beneficial. As they listen to raw, real-life stories, the goal is to ignite a sense of empathy and understanding within the community, fostering an environment that supports children’s futures.

>、”It’s important for everyone to know that even a little effort in understanding can significantly impact a child’s future.”

The event is free of charge, but some venues may require prior registration.

Event Schedule

- Event Name: Foster Care Experience Presentation
- Dates: October to December 2026
- Location: Multiple cities under the Kodaira Child Consultation Center (please check the schedule for venue specifics)
- Audience: Open to anyone interested in child-rearing support, community welfare, residents, and education and welfare professionals.

Program Content

1. Opening Remarks
2. Explanation of the Foster Care System in Tokyo
3. Experience presentations from current foster caregivers or former foster children (youth)
4. Q&A Session
5. Individual Consulting Sessions

Five Key Things to Learn About the Event

1. Current Status and Challenges: An initiative driven by the community to increase the number of children raised in family-like environments. Currently, approximately 42,000 children in Japan cannot live with their parents due to various issues, yet less than 30% have access to foster care, with over 70% living in facilities. The government encourages foster care placements to help achieve loving environments for these children.

2. Community Impact: Awareness is a crucial first step. Becoming a foster parent can be a complex decision, and simply knowing about the system fosters a supportive community for children.

3. Voices of Experience: Attendees will hear firsthand accounts from foster caregivers and youths detailing their experiences, triumphs, and the challenges they faced.

4. Understanding Unique Needs: Every child has unique circumstances and backgrounds. This event provides an opportunity to learn about diverse fostering arrangements that cater to different needs, including temporary placements and weekend home visits.

5. Long-term Support: Transitioning into adulthood can be challenging for youths leaving foster care. Highlighting the importance of aftercare and continuous support will be a focus, emphasizing that the community plays a role in providing a safe space for these youths to return as needed.

Join Us

Every year, in October and November, we encourage the community to engage with the foster care system through informative events. Attendance can inspire understanding and support for those involved in fostering.

For detailed information about the foster care system, program schedules, and to reserve your spot, visit the Key Assets official website.

About Key Assets

Founded in 2010, Key Assets aims for a world where every child thrives. Partnering with multiple municipalities, they provide foster care support services and have established a strong foundation in fostering culture within local communities. They are renowned for blending community engagement with innovative strategies to support children and families effectively.