However, foster care agencies are not always organized to serve older children in this way, because national child welfare policies emphasize returning children home or freeing them for adoption. One approach to providing programs that include employment skills is to develop an overall plan for independent living that spells out specific goals, activities, and responsible participants in the major life areas of employment, housing, transportation, health, mental health, social and recreational activities, and home and money management. Foster care agencies usually need to rely on outside educators, trainers, and othe helpers to teach and reinforce many of the critical skills. Agencies should consider joining the employment and training network to take advantage of the programs and activities already in place. Working as part of a coalition or network will be more effective than acting competitively or in isolation. Resources for employment and training include the Job Training Partnership Act programs, the Job Corps administered by the Department of Labor, public school programs, and informal networks. 7 references. (Author abstract modified)