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OUR WORK
Youth Advocacy & Engagement
Elevating Youth to Share Their Stories and Raise Their Voices
Through advocacy and engagement opportunities, our programs create space for and champion youth and young adults. Youth are asking hard questions and coming to the table with the changes they think need to be made. Our programs aim to amplify their voices in support of just policies and investments across the state.
LEGISLATIVE ACHIEVEMENTS
Oregon Foster Youth Connection
Giving Foster Youth the Tools to Succeed
Oregon Foster Youth Connection (OFYC) empowers current and former foster youth to share their voices and to be heard in key decisions affecting children and youth in foster care. OFYC members participate in key child welfare advisory meetings, offering their unique perspective in trainings for judges, caseworkers, and foster parents. They also provide education on foster care issues and advocate for policy change in the Oregon Legislature. OFYC members receive meaningful support from their peers and adult mentors and grow in their leadership and communication skills. They work collectively to develop and advocate for lasting solutions for themselves and the thousands of children and youth in Oregon’s foster care system.
What Does it Mean to be Youth-Led?
OFYC’s Advisory Committee answers: A group of empowered current and former foster youth showing their independence and leadership skills through advocacy. With support from and partnering with adults; these strong and resilient youth use their own thoughts, ideas, and voices to advocate for positive change in their communities.
Become an OFYC Member
Oregon Foster Youth Connection is actively seeking new members to help support their work and to create meaningful change in our communities. Use the link below to learn more about becoming an OFYC member.
Debate for Oregon's Future
In October, 2018, Oregon’s gubernatorial candidates participated in a debate where, for the first time, all the questions were written and presented by youth ranging from ages 12 to 19 from across the state. The Debate for Oregon’s Future gave youth the opportunity to hold the candidates accountable for the issues that matter most to them.
Our Children Oregon recognizes the impact and importance of having those children and youth most impacted by policy decisions share their perspectives and ask the challenging questions they need answered. We look forward to the 2022 Governor’s election and our next Debate for Oregon’s Future.
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