The E Makua Ana Youth Circle model grew out of San Jose California’s Emancipation Conference program, which is based on Family Group Decision-Making/Conferencing. E Makua Ana means becoming an adult in Hawaiian. The Circles are for youth, 16 and older, who will be leaving state custody. The Circle’s purpose is to celebrate the teenager’s emancipation and bring together the teenager’s supporters and service providers who can help the teen develop a plan for their future independence. The Circles are solution-focused and youth driven.

Why do E Makua Ana Youth Circles?
· To reduce homelessness among emancipated youth
· To connect youth to their circle of support, which may include the families from whom they were removed
· To give youth the opportunity to gain more information about further education, training, financial assistance, housing options and other social service providers
· To encourage youth to dream big while giving them the tools and support to achieve their dreams

For more information, download this fact sheet.
Youth Circles Fact Sheet-06-03-01

Referrals
Who is Eligible?

• A youth 16 to 18 years old in foster care
• A youth receiving the DHS higher education payment (18 through 21)
• Victoria S. & Bradley L. Geist Foundation Grant: For former foster youth and foster youth who emancipated from state custody ages 16-24, excluding youth exiting correctional and drug treatment facilities

Download this fillable form to refer yourself (if you are the youth) or to refer a youth to the Youth Circle.
YC Referral Form Revised 070409