Hand In Hand Foster Care Summit

Join us in a celebration of resilience, collaboration and success, ensuring that foster youth and young adults have access to the knowledge, opportunities and support they need to thrive!

 

Hand In Hand Foster Care Summit

Hosted by Dallas College Hand in Hand and Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)

Thursday, May 8, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Dallas College Brookhaven Campus – Building H, Room H125

RSVP To Attend
  • Explore career paths and hot jobs – Immerse yourself in virtual reality career experiences and discover in-demand opportunities.
  • Life simulation experience – Navigate real-world challenges in our hands-on financial and decision-making activity.
  • Network with industry leaders – Connect with employers, mentors and professionals at our Career Fair and lunch.
  • Resume and interview skills workshops – Learn how to craft a standout resume and ace job interviews with expert guidance.

Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. Lunch will be provided for all registered attendees.

 

8–8:45 a.m.

Breakfast and Check-In
  • Registration and materials pick-up
  • Networking with attendees and vendors

8:45–9 a.m.

Welcome & Event Overview
  • Opening remarks from event organizers
  • Overview of the day’s schedule and expectations

9 a.m.–Noon

Rotating Sessions (Attendees will rotate between these two sessions in assigned groups.)
  1. TWC Career & Workforce Readiness Session (1 hour 30 minutes per group)
    • Understanding the labor market and in-demand careers
    • Resume-building and interview preparation
    • Workforce resources and navigating career uncertainty
  2. Life Simulation: "One Month in the Real World" (1 hour 30 minutes per group)
    • Navigate financial and personal responsibilities
    • Simulated experience of budgeting, employment and unexpected challenges
    • Facilitator-led discussions at each station

9 a.m.-Noon

Meadows Institute Roundtable: "Building Bridges" (Separate from the rotating sessions but part of the summit)
  • Strengthening foster youth transitions into education and career pathways
  • Panel discussion with experts and youth advocates
  • Small group discussions on barriers and solutions

Noon-1 p.m.

Lunch & Resource Fair
  • Networking with vendors, service providers and employers
  • Open booths for housing, employment and life skills support

1-3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker & Action Planning
  • Motivational keynote speaker focused on career success and resilience
  • Reflection on lessons learned throughout the day
  • Attendees create a personal action plan for their next steps

3–3:45 p.m.

Closing Keynote & Panel Discussion
  • Panel of former foster youth sharing their experiences and advice
  • Final reflections on career and life readiness

3:45–4 p.m.

Wrap-Up & Final Announcements
  • Event survey and feedback collection
  • Closing remarks and acknowledgments
 

For more information, contact Ahmahtzyah Barrett at ABarrett@DallasCollege.edu.