If you’ve never lived in a foster home or spent time in a juvenile detention center, it’s hard to understand what life is like for kids who do. That’s why the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department is now hiring interns who’ve had those experiences.
“I can see what’s worked for people in my family, I’ve seen what works for me and everything so I’m able to bring my past experiences forward to help the youth,” Quintana said.
In a new program, CYFD Secretary Monique Jacobson says the department is getting young adults who were in CYFD programs to be part of conversations about policy and to work with teens themselves.