Unaccompanied Children Lived Experience and Youth Engagement Program

The Unaccompanied Children Lived Experience and Youth Engagement Program (LEYEP), funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), aims to enhance the care and outcomes for unaccompanied children through a structured, national-level engagement initiative. This program focuses on the development of a Lived Experience Council, comprising individuals who were formerly in ORR custody as unaccompanied children and sponsors of such children. The primary objectives are to conduct research on best practices for working with this population and to provide direct, trauma-informed education and life skills training to program participants. Key goals of the LEYEP include the protection of unaccompanied children from exploitation, abuse, and trafficking, and the support of their integration and development through feedback, educational opportunities, and leadership training. The program will create a Youth Leadership Academy for participants aged 14-21 to develop life skills and advocacy competencies. Feedback gathered from these individuals will inform ORR policies and practices, aiming to improve services and safeguard unaccompanied children during their transition into communities. The total funding available for the program is $1,800,000, and the project period spans three years with annual budget periods. Eligible applicants include a range of organizations, such as nonprofits, community-based organizations, and faith-based groups. Applications from individuals or foreign entities are not eligible. The program emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that participants reflect the diversity of unaccompanied children and families served by ORR. Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity and prior experience with vulnerable populations. Applications are due by December 20, 2024, and must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov unless an exemption is obtained. The project description must detail how the objectives will be achieved, including the establishment of the Lived Experience Council, development of a trauma-informed curriculum, and plans for overcoming participation barriers. A detailed budget and justification are required, covering costs such as participant travel to an annual in-person meeting in Washington, D.C., and provision of necessary technology for remote participation. Evaluation criteria focus on the applicant's understanding of challenges faced by unaccompanied children, strategies for engagement, ability to provide trauma-informed services, and plans for disseminating findings and best practices. ORR will work closely with the recipient to review plans and provide substantial input on program activities. Reporting requirements include quarterly updates on performance progress, financial details, and data on participant engagement and program outcomes. This program presents a significant opportunity for organizations committed to enhancing the safety and well-being of unaccompanied children through informed, evidence-based approaches, while also empowering participants to contribute meaningfully to policy and program improvements.