Foster Youth Shadow Day 2015

On May 20, 2015, more than 60 foster youth alumni from across the country traveled to Washington, DC to shadow members of Congress and share their experiences in the child welfare system as a way to raise awareness about the foster care system.

Training

Before meeting with members of Congress, the youth participated in trainings to learn how to use their personal stories and experiences to explain their ideas for the child welfare system.

Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth Co-Chair Rep. Karen Bass (CA-37) joined the training to thank the foster youth for their work to raise awareness of child welfare issues and elevate the voices of foster youth.

Visiting the White House

Foster Youth spent part of their time in Washington visiting the White House, where they took park in a “White House Champions of Change” ceremony that honored foster youth for their tremendous educational and professional achievements to not only better themselves, but to improve the lives of others in foster care.

Shadowing

The foster youth spent the following day with their member of Congress, learning about the behind the scenes work that happens in our nation's capital. Each youth had the opportunity to share their story with a member of Congress. Without a doubt, these foster youth were the stars of Capitol Hill that day, having the courage to tell their personal stories and inspiring Democrats and Republicans alike to use their positions to improve the lives of the nearly 400,000 youth who are in the foster care system.

View photos of the shadow experience:

Shadow Day Luncheon

Following the Shadow Day experience, youth and members of Congress joined Casey Family Programs and the National Foster Youth Institute at a luncheon with special guest actress Victoria Rowell.

The luncheon also featured a panel of former foster youth, who discussed suggestions for improving child welfare, keeping families together and preventing youth from entering the system in the first place.

Watch the full video of the luncheon: