About Summer Leadership & Policy Conference (SLPC)

The Statewide Leadership & Policy Conference (SLPC) is a vital part of CYC’s ongoing rhythm of action. This powerful three day event will convene youth leaders from across California to:

Deepen their understanding of CYC’s five statewide priorities,
Explore local issues impacting youth and communities,
Learn how to organize within their regions and build local power,
Create meaningful, system-level change rooted in lived experience,
Develop the skills to generate statewide policy and legislative agendas informed by local grassroots organizing and listening sessions,
Understand how to uplift youth voice into actionable, youth-driven strategies that center equity and lived expertise.

Through hands-on workshops, participants will dive into root cause analysis and examine the interconnectedness of CYC’s five priorities, learning how local advocacy efforts can drive statewide systems change.

Conference Costs

Cost Breakdown

Lodging: $400
Meals, training, activities, and supplies: $350

There are 2 registration options for CYC members.

Conference Attendance - No Lodging: $350
- This option is for attendees who do not need lodging expenses to attend SLPC.
Conference Attendance - Lodging
- This option is for attendees who need lodging accommodations/ expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the conference?
- The conference will be held in Emeryville, California.
When is the conference?
- June 20 - 23, 2025
What expenses does the sponsorship cover?
- There are two options for sponsorship. Please see the conference costs breakdown above.
How can I sponsor?
- You can sponsor securely online via this fundraiser. To give by mail please make checks payable to California Youth Connection and send to: 490 Lake Park Ave #10675, Oakland, CA, 94610.

For more information please contact conferences@calyouthconn.org

About California Youth Connection

Founded in 1988 by youth in the foster care system, California Youth Connection (CYC) is a non-profit organization that develops and grows leaders who empower each other and our communities to transform the foster care and intersecting systems through community-led organizing, legislative, policy, and practice change. Our members receive personalized mentorship, training, and support to find their voice. They enhance their skills by engaging with civic leaders, child welfare practitioners, fellow foster youth, and the public. Our mission is to develop leaders from among the population of current or former system-involved youth, to empower each other and their communities to transform the foster care system through legislative, policy, and practice change. Our vision is that youth impacted by the child welfare and intersecting systems are empowered to have their needs met, and the support to grow into healthy adults.

Summer Leadership & Policy Conference 2025

A Conference for California's Young Leaders