Angie Cross, alumna, age 33, TX, 7 years in Canadian care
Team member and writer

Angie spent seven years living in the Canadian Child welfare system. During this time she experienced many different placements from foster homes; to group homes; independent living programs; mental health institutions; and even homelessness (although that was not a ‘placement’). She is not sure how many placements she experienced over the years, yet she clearly recalls how all those transitions felt.

Now in her thirties, Angie can reflect back to many of her experiences and transitions with peace of mind. All those placements, all those relationships, and all those transitions were tough (and at times unnecessary) yet she knows she wouldn’t be the person she has become without every single one of those experiences.

While working on FLUX, Angie gained an understanding of emotional transition and specific language from the Framework to help her express her feelings and experiences. This allowed her to share her own stories for the book, and to work effectively with the amazing team of alumni from across the country.  The writing for FLUX became a genuine, organic process, which was a powerful personal experience for Angie.

Professionally, Angie began her ‘foster care career’ in Canada and has spent the last 16 years supporting the development of youth and alumni voice throughout Canada and the United States. She has been an active and founding member of several youth/alumni networks, including the Federation on BC Youth in Care Networks (FBCYICN) and Foster Care Alumni of America.

In Canada, Angie has served four years as an executive board member of the National Youth In Care Network, worked at the FBCYICN, and The Office of the Child, Youth and Family Advocate. Angie is also a founder of several programs in Canada including the Welcome Project for Youth in Care, Youth Housing Registry, and Youth Speak.

Angie came to the US more than eight years ago to work for Casey Family Programs in Texas. She later worked for Baptist Child and Family Services before returning to Casey Family Programs, this time in Seattle at Casey’s Headquarters. Angie now lives in Texas with her husband and 14-year-old son. She is self-employed as a consultant and also works for the Canadian National Youth In Care Network as the Director of Social Engagement and Communications.

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