" On Their Own is a must-read account...for all Americans who care about children."(President Jimmy Carter) On Their Own tells the compelling stories of ten young people whose lives are full of promise, but who face economic and social barriers stemming from the disruptions of foster care. This book calls for action to provide youth in foster care the same opportunities on the road to adulthood that most of our youth take for granted--access to higher education, vocational training, medical care, housing, and relationships within their communities. On Their Own is meant to serve as a clarion call not only to policymakers, but to all Americans who care about the future of our young people. "Together, Shirk and Stangler have written a searing book about one aspect of the foster-care mess--the older teenagers who age out of the system meant to protect their welfare." ( St. Louis Post-Dispatch )