Challenges and strengths among Chafee Education and Training Voucher eligible youth: The rural service providers' perspective

This paper explores service providers' perspectives on youth-related factors that impact the utilization of the Chafee Educational and Training Voucher (ETV) Program in three relatively rural states. Findings derived from mail surveys (N = 105) and in-depth interviews (N = 17) with child welfare and educational service providers highlight challenges and innovations found in working with Chafee ETV eligible youth. Implications for practice include the need to improve service delivery for rural youth transitioning to post-secondary education in the following areas: connecting with youth who are initially reluctant to stay linked to the child welfare system; addressing possible gaps in emotional or social supports; and providing concrete services like housing, transportation, and health care.