In this enlightening episode of the "Resilient Voices & Beyond" podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas engages with Commissioner Rebecca Jones Gaston, the visionary leader of the Administration for Children, Youth, and Families (ACYF). Commissioner Gaston shares her compelling journey from her brief experience in foster care to spearheading significant reforms in the U.S. child welfare system. Throughout the discussion, she underscores the pivotal policies she's championed, such as the final kinship role, independent legal representation, and designated placement rules for LGBTQIA+ youth. Rebecca's strategic focus on community engagement, addressing workforce challenges, and prioritizing preventive over reactive measures illuminates her approach to systemic change. The episode delves into her advocacy for multi-system collaboration, the critical role of foster parents, and the necessity of listening to and respecting the voices of those impacted by the system. Join us for a deep dive into how Rebecca Jones Gaston is reshaping child welfare for a more inclusive and supportive future.

Guest Bio: Rebecca Jones Gaston, Commissioner of the Administration on Children, Youth, and Families, has dedicated over 25 years to human services, focusing on child welfare reforms that encompass kinship care, legal protections for families, and rights for LGBTQIA2S+ youth in foster care. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices that have positioned her as a key figure in national child welfare policy.Key Takeaways:

• Insights into the transformative policies impacting child welfare nationally.
• The importance of community involvement and the integration of lived experiences in policy-making.
• Challenges and strategies in navigating federal and state policies to advocate for systemic change.
• The role of foster parents and community organizations in creating supportive environments for children and families.