Protecting Financial Futures: Prevent, Identify & Resolve Identity Theft in Foster Care

Identity theft in foster care is a growing concern that affects some of the most vulnerable members of society. In many cases, children in foster care may not even be aware that their identities have been compromised until they are preparing to age out of the system or after they have left care. This issue demands a comprehensive community-wide approach involving prevention, early identification, and prompt resolution. In this webinar, participants will be guided by three experts: a lived experience expert who has firsthand knowledge of the foster care system and identity theft, a children’s rights attorney, and the Chief Victims Officer at the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC). The panel will discuss examples from the San Diego community, explore the applicable law and policies, and present strategies and best practices. Attendees will gain practical insights into preventing and addressing identity theft within the foster care system. This is an essential opportunity for children’s attorneys to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard the rights and identities of their clients.

Presenters:

Melanie Delgado, JD, is a Senior Staff Attorney and Director of Transition Age Youth Projects at the University of San Diego School of Law’s Children’s Advocacy Institute (CAI). Since 2006, she has advocated in the area of child rights, particularly focusing on issues related to transition age foster youth. Melanie has extensive experience in research, writing, and advocacy. She chairs the Children’s Advocates Roundtable in California, where she actively engages with child advocates from around the state to amplify the voices of children and youth in Sacramento. Melanie received her law degree from USD in 2006.

Kyra Endoso is the Impact and Systems Data Manager at Just In Time for Foster Youth. Kyra is an ambitious life-long learner with a comprehensive educational background ranging from biochemistry to child development. Originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, Kyra struggled with her identity as a former foster youth and moved to California in order to build a new life for herself. Prior to 2017, Kyra wouldn’t disclose her background as a former foster youth. However, now it is her passion. Just in Time helped Kyra accept her history and advocate for those in her community. She believes that communication is the essence of human connection, which is what drives her goal to support every individual in finding their own voice to express and advocate for their well-being.

Mona Terry, MBA, is the Chief Victims Officer at the Identity Theft Resource Center and is responsible for internal and public-facing victim services and victim-related publications. Mona has a passion for consumer protection and continues to seek ways to make a positive impact on all stakeholders affected by identity crimes and related issues. Mona previously served at the Better Business Bureau in San Diego as the Director of Operations and holds a master’s degree in business administration.

This webinar is free for NACC Members. Members, please log in when you register for this event. This webinar is $45 for non-members. This course has been accredited by the Colorado Board of Continuing Legal and Judicial Education for a maximum of 2 units of general credit.