Empower youth voices to create systemic change in the foster care and intersecting systems.

In 1988, when the child welfare policies that defined their lives had long been developed without them, a small group of youth in foster care decided to speak up. Inspired by a youth advocacy model in Canada, these 17 youth organized their peers from across California to improve the foster care system as only they could.

The youth who founded California Youth Connection (CYC) knew firsthand that far too many young people exit foster care at 18 without long term connections, stable living conditions, and little if any chance of going to college or maintaining employment. Determined to change these outcomes for generations of foster youth, they convened their peers to educate policymakers and advocate for the needs of youth in care.

Our goal at CYC is to ensure every young person has a voice and the power to shape the systems that impact their lives.

At CYC we empower current and former system impacted youth through leadership, advocacy, and community engagement.

This Giving Tuesday, help California Youth Connection reach our goal of providing conference experiences to 30 of our youth members.

Conferences are crucial to the leadership and skills development of our members. We will be attending a conference next week, and several next year. Your donation helps to cover the travel and accommodation costs.

CYC Youth have influenced over 30 legislative changes aimed at improving the foster care system.

Since CYC was established in 1988 the foster care system in California has been transformed, as well as the thousands of youth who have joined CYC.

Our members have become confident, effective advocates for themselves and future generations. Our work has resulted in the passage of dozens of new laws that have profoundly improved the lives of hundreds of thousands of California youth.

Your donation invests in these young people who are future leaders. By supporting California Youth Connection you are ensuring an equitable future for all.

California Youth Connection is a tax-exempt public charity (federal tax ID #943141616). All contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowable by law. No goods or services were provided in exchange for your generous financial donation.

Empower California Foster Youth: Giving Tuesday 2024

Donate today to ensure youth have a voice in their future.

Team Members