Vermont Business Magazine Vermont’s child welfare system strives to promote the safety and well-being of children, youth and families. Act 129 of 2022 created the Office of the Child, Youth, and Family Advocate to add transparency and accountability to our state systems. This Office will center racial justice and uplift the voices of children, youth, and families impacted by the child welfare, juvenile justice, and related mental health systems.
The Oversight Commission on Children, Youth, and Families announced today the appointment of Matthew Bernstein as the Child, Youth, and Family Advocate by Governor Scott. As director of Vermont's first Office of the Child, Youth, and Family Advocate, Matthew has extensive experience advocating for those impacted by the child welfare system and has demonstrated the ability to work with state agencies, legislature, advocates, and the community.
“I am honored to be Vermont's first Advocate”, said Child, Youth, and Family Advocate Matthew Bernstein. “I look forward to setting up an office that will create lasting, positive change for children, youth, and families. Ultimately, our success will be measured by positive outcomes that improve the lives of Vermonters. I deeply appreciate the work that went into the creation of this office and look forward to listening and learning to Vermonters invested in child, youth, and family well-being.”
Matthew began his post today, February 27, 2023. As he sets up this Office, he will convene an Advisory Council of stakeholders who have been impacted by child welfare services and will hire a Deputy Advocate.
“This position is long overdue in Vermont”, said Nate Farnham, a member of the Oversight Commission who grew up in the foster care system. “Youth in care will now have a direct voice in our state’s government for advocacy.”
Updates on the implementation of the Office of the Child, Youth, and Family Advocate will be posted at twitter.com/vtadvocate.
2.27.2023. Office of the Child, Youth, and Family Advocate
