A permanency option for youth in foster care
SOUL Family provides lifelong support to older youth in foster care by allowing them to legally designate a caring network of family, friends and mentors to guide them through their teenage years and into adulthood.
1st
State in the nation to pioneer this legally binding permanency option
16+
Designed for youth ages 16 and older to transition into adulthood with secure, lifelong connections
65
SOUL Families two years following implementation
How It's Different
Designed by and for older children in foster care
Traditional systems and legal options don't always address the complexities of the lives and relationships of older youth in foster care. SOUL Family gives youth a voice in defining the kind of support they need and the people who provide it. That support continues into adulthood.
Maintain ties with birth families
Unlike traditional adoption, youth do not have to sever legal ties with biological parents or siblings. They grow their circle of support instead of replacing it.
Build a network of support
SOUL Family recognizes that youth need a network of caring adults beyond their legal caregivers and birth family. This network may include mentors, teachers, coaches, family friends, neighbors, faith leaders, and other trusted adults who provide guidance, encouragement, and emotional support.
Keep support into adulthood
SOUL Family creates lifelong legal family relationships and a network of trusted adults committed to supporting young people throughout adulthood. These lasting connections provide the stability, guidance, and encouragement youth need to thrive beyond foster care.
Access benefits and supports
SOUL Family ensures young people do not have to choose between a permanent family and the benefits and supports they need to thrive. Youth continue to access financial support and transition-to-adulthood services, including housing, education, and healthcare, while building lifelong family relationships.
How It Works
Chosen by youth
A youth identifies the adults they want in their lifelong support network. One or more adults may be named as legal custodians. Others may fill a role as a trusted adult who commits to supporting the young person into adulthood.
Legal relationship established
With the consent of the youth, parent(s) (when required), legal custodian(s), and court approval, a SOUL Family legal relationship is established. The court may also recognize other trusted adults as part of the SOUL Family network.
A lifelong commitment
Adults in a SOUL Family make a lifelong commitment to supporting the youth with stability, guidance, and encouragement while they maintain access to key supports like housing, education, and healthcare.
Legislative Journey
The evolution of SOUL Family
JUN 2026
65 SOUL Families established
A milestone marking 65 SOUL Family finalizations and the creation of lifelong family relationships for youth.
MAY 2025
SOUL Family Collective forms
A group of statewide partners including individuals with lived experience unite to strengthen and advance SOUL Family.
SEP 2024
First SOUL Family finalization
A milestone establishing the first SOUL Family and demonstrating the power of lifelong family connections for youth.
Beyond Legislation
“Our entire purpose is to work together to make SOUL Family available to every young person who needs it.”
For More Information
Still have questions?
Explore answers to common questions about how it works, who can be involved, and how this option supports youth and families in our FAQs. Or contact us for more information.
Are you a child welfare professional?
Have questions about SOUL Family or its implementation in Kansas? Connect with us to learn more.
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