David Channer, President (Chair)
Darryn Green, Vice President (ChairElect)
Marissa Miller, Treasurer
Robin Allen, Interim Secretary Members
Kimberly Coronel, Youth Director
Joshua Elizondo, Youth Director
Aaron Polanco, Youth Director
Jordan Sosa, Board Member
Anthony Stover, Board Member
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California Youth Connection (CYC) is a dynamic and impactful non-profit organization. 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 and intersecting systems 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.
“Noteverythingthatisfacedcanbechanged, butnothingcanbechangeduntilitisfaced.”
-JamesBaldwin
California Youth Connection (CYC) embarked on a courageous journey of selfexamination at the start of 2024, looking closely at every aspect of its organizational systems and structures in an effort to be able to support its youth members in the best ways imaginable. I first became associated with CYC 20 years ago when I was directing some national initiatives with the Child Welfare League of America in Washington, D.C. I was in the process of holding more than a dozen listening forums, held in every region of the country, to better understand and address issues facing LGBTQ+ youth involved with child welfare systems. These forums were typically attended by 30-40 youth and their advocates The forum we held in Sacramento, which was scheduled to coincide with CYC’s Day at the Capitol, drew more than 80 CYC members, by far the largest turnout of any of the forums we held anywhere in the country! So I was thrilled when CYC invited me to come on board as their Interim Executive Director and to lead this venerable organization through what has been a transformative and extremely productive transition process
I view my work as an Interim ED as that of a structural engineer When someone drives over a bridge, they usually have one basic goal to get to the other side safely without the bridge falling down from underneath them. When structural engineers examine a bridge, we want them to look over every square inch and to spot even the smallest cracks. Based on my 30+ years of experience working with nonprofits around the country, I wanted to learn where all the cracks may be lurking that could threaten CYC’s long-term sustainability. It takes inordinate bravery for any organization to look inward, to want to see where its cracks are, and to take steps necessary to ensure it is the healthy, well-organized, and well-resourced advocate youth throughout California need it to be
In order to facilitate this process, our first step was to convene a Transition Team whose members were drawn from agency staff, the board of directors, and most essentially, CYC’s youth membership The overarching responsibilities of the Transition Team included representing the interests of the larger CYC staff, board, and membership throughout the transition process
The transition process was and continues to be centered around four primary phases: 1 The Diagnostic Phase during which a comprehensive inventory of all agency resources was conducted; 2. The Planning Phase during which the Transition Team devised and implemented a time-limited work plan designed to take a deep dive into all aspects of CYC’s programmatic, policy, financial, and human resources infrastructures; 3 The Organizational Interventions Phase during which we determined the organization’s programmatic needs and wants, and made prioritizing determinations with regard to the best use of available resources, both financial and human, in order to operationalize them; and 4 The Succession Phase during which we are currently redefining policies and procedures, financial management, organizational operations, and programmatic and fund-development goals needed to support a well-defined, transparent executive search process for the next permanent leader who will lead CYC into its exciting future
One of the first and most essential steps undertaken by the Transition Team, and indeed by everyone associated with CYC, was to define what we mean when we say that CYC is a “youth-led” organization. Discussions held during staff meetings, All-Chapters meetings with youth members, and board meetings led us to this conclusion: Youth will ALWAYS lead the movement to ensure that policies, laws, and practice models that affect them will be designed with their best interests in mind.
This core belief is the very bedrock that has guided CYC since its inception nearly 40 years ago While youth lead in the movement, nonprofit professionals lead the organization that supports this movement. This youth-adult partnership between the movement and the organization dedicated to supporting it has long been and will continue to be CYC’s main source of strength
All of these efforts have been undertaken to help CYC grow as an organization so that it is best able to support our youth members in learning the skills they will need to be the leaders of tomorrow. And as with any growth spurt, CYC’s brave undertaking over the course of this last year has not been without its share of growing pains But the lessons that youth who have experienced and survived homelessness, multiple foster care placements, incarceration, or any combination of the above teach us is that through resilience, determination, and a commitment to making CYC and the systems with which our members continue to be involved stronger, more effective, and more compassionate, the better able we are as an organization to help them grow into happy, thriving adults.
To the future!
--Rob Woronoff, MS Interim Executive Director California Youth Connection
On behalf of the CYC Board of Directors we are delighted to share some of CYC’s Board Accomplishments for the 2023-24 fiscal year: Recruiting an Interim ED: We were successful in recruiting an interim ED to guide CYC through a key period in its development. Rob Woronoff has led efforts to assess and improve organizational functioning and to prepare CYC for an executive search. One of our primary goals has been to ensure that Rob will be able to offer his successor an organization that is strong, stable, and aligned. During his time with CYC, Rob and his team have done a tremendous amount to achieve this goal
Board-Membership Engagement: We have deepened and expanded board engagement with CYC membership in a variety of ways We have implemented bimonthly coffee chats to allow members to meet directly with board members We have also participated in the "Our Community, Our Future: Convening" where we hear directly from youth and staff about the needs, priorities and ideas for improvement to sustain CYC's future
Expansion of Board Membership: We have strategized with the IED to streamline and improve recruitment of new board members The result has been the onboarding of 4 new board members representing our membership, CYC alumni and FIYA affiliates Governance Committee: We have transitioned our “engagement and recruitment sub-committee” into a standing Governance Committee – expanding its scope of work to include board development This has helped us to improve the board’s ability to support the needs of the organization in an aligned and timely manner
Development Committee: We have reactivated our development committee to deepen our board’s engagement and partnership with staff in fund development for the organization
The Development Committee has also built tighter ties with the Finance Committee to ensure that our short, medium, and long-term fund development strategies are aligned with our fiscal planning and oversight.
Board Governance and Policies: We have committed to the development and improvement of key policies to strengthen our governance, clarify the protocols of organizational decision-making, and elevate board functioning. Among other things, this has included the codification of our internal processes around board recruitment and onboarding, input and feedback loops for members around governance and operational decisions and review and updating our committee charters to capture the scope of work and integration of new expectations and accountability controls
Transition Committee: We have participated fully in the Transition Committee to ensure thoughtful partnership between board, members, and staff in preparing for the new permanent ED
We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation of CYC members, staff, and leadership We continue to be impressed and inspired by the dedication, passion, skill, and insight that characterize all the people who make CYC what it is
Their hard work and commitment continue to make CYC better year after year CYC continues to play a vital role in the landscape of policies and legislation that impact the lives of children and youth in Foster Care
David Channer
Darryn Green Board President Vice President
CYC’s core strength is providing youth with valuable skills that enhance their long-term career prospects, both within CYC and beyond. Over the years, many youth members have advanced to staff positions and even joined the Board of Directors. For example, Mariah Corder, who spent 10 years involved in various youth committees, was recently hired as a full-time Community Advocacy Coordinator supporting youth across the San Francisco Bay Area. Another example is Aaron Polanco, a current CYC member who recently joined the Board of Directors
I began my journey with California Youth Connection (CYC) in 2014, little 14 year old Mariah Corder! I remember my life until that point having been shuffled around homes to group homes, told what to do, how to feel, how to dress, what to eat, and even what to think. I often reflect back to how voiceless and powerless I felt which in turn caused pain and acting out as a result. I was impatient, sarcastic, sometimes even downright rude. Let’s just say I wasn’t the “easiest” young person to work with all the time.
Starting at CYC, it was almost uncomfortable the amount of times I was asked to share my opinion since I had never been asked anywhere else before. After all, I only started at CYC to visit my sibling who was already a member at the time. What was truly being asked of me was vulnerability, something I knew nothing about. Something that made me uncomfortable, yet the adults around made it safe to be. Vulnerability and honesty were the two most treasured skills. I was taught to stand for what I believed in, and to speak my whole truth every time no matter who was watching.
Slowly with these tools and training we received I gained interest, passion, necessary coping skills, communication, and a community of people around that understood me - as well as some really supportive healthy adult staff and supporters redirecting me and supporting my development.
I began to change from this unheard angry young person into someone who had leadership, drive, and hope - all I needed was to be shown how to use that voice and CYC modeled that for me.
Over the next 10 years I poured my heart and soul into the organization, exploring EVERY possible opportunity available to members gaining a “degree in CYC” as I say. Really, it’s the personal and professional development I was gifted that helped me to build an outstanding resume, lifelong relationships, mentors, and expose me to plentiful opportunities to participate in other organizations work as well, and finally get myself into a beautiful career that I love!
I am so honored to be part of the staff team now at CYC, and to provide the membership that I work with now, and in future, the same opportunities I was given to grow and blossom and be the safe space needed to thrive! I’m forever grateful for the staff who saw me, and made it possible to finally grow and more importantly start to heal.
My message to our membership would be see yourself in the position you dream of, they are far more attainable than you think. You are worthy, we are all worthy.
Big Love!
-- Mariah Corder Bay Area Community Advocacy Coordinator
As a newer affiliate of CYC’s Southern California region and Orange County Chapter I have experienced quite a lot in little time. From starting my journey as a Core Organizer under the Project/Program Trainee Member model to now serving as one of 25 members in the Emerging Leaders Cohort, and one of the newest youth representatives on the Board of Directors, there are many achievements I am proud to have accomplished in CYC within the past year.
CYC is a one of a kind organization that serves its members by empowering youth voice, providing skilled leadership training and utilizing platforms that provide personal and professional development. Since my journey began I have deep dived into what it means to advocate and organize at the local, statewide and federal level. I have been able to connect with foster youth from around the state and learn the benefits and shortcomings of the child welfare system, and how young people in care get together to address the issue and rectify laws to protect its adolescents
Earlier this year I was able to speak to representatives of our state congress to speak in opposition of proposed budget cuts that targeted vital foster youth programs These programs included the Supervised Independent Living Program (SILP) supplement, Family Urgency and Response System (Cal-FURS), Housing navigation and the Maintenance Program (HNMP) Thanks to our collective voice, funding for these programs were reinstated protecting housing and safety for many young people in care and across the state
In my home chapter, I am currently working alongside our chapter chair to make sure transition-aged youth in Orange County are connected to the family flex funds. In addition to this, we would like to see if we can emulate LA County’s ENRICH Stipend program and provide 1:1 mentorship to youth participants, preferably by employing former foster youth in these positions. Additionally, I am working to support members who wish to advocate for juvenile justice or dual status youth rights and broadening Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) support for voucher recipients looking to transfer to Orange County.
Moreover, deep diving into the internal aspects of CYC, especially during our transition from an interim Executive Director to a long time ED has taught me a lot about how 501(c)(3) nonprofits function and has inspired me to become a member of CYC’s Board of Directors I am grateful for a transition committee that highlights transparency, and upholding youth voice in many of our organizational decisions I feel heavily drawn to a career in this field and grateful it has influenced my employment decisions in my current role to provide mentorship as an Economic Development Coach for LA county youth receiving the family flex funds I am looking forward to going forward, utilizing my work experience and personal journey to create long-term change for the better of all foster youth
--Aaron Polanco Youth Member, Board Member
After a thorough examination of our Project Training Member (PTM) model through which many of CYC’s youth members were classified as part-time staff, we’ve made a shift back to focusing more on developing the knowledge and skills CYC’s members will need to achieve their academic and professional goals Rather than being paid as part-time employees, many CYC members are now part of an Emerging Leaders Cohort, through which they will not only develop the tools they will use throughout their lives, but they will also receive stipends in honor of achieving a number of benchmarks that track the progress of their leadership development
We have reorganized many of CYC organizational structures Some of these changes include combining what had been CYC’s Directors of Development and Operations into a new Chief Operating Officer position who now oversees and coordinates all of CYC’s internal operations, fund-development, HR, finance, and programmatic systems A newlycreated Director of Programs position now coordinates all of CYC’s programming, which includes Member Engagement, Conferences, Training, Policy and Legislative initiatives, and Special Initiatives, as well as CYC’s national arm Foster Youth in Action (FYIA). This position grew out of a reclassification of an existing staff position and the promotion of a current staff member The management of CYC’s finances, which had been outsourced, is now managed internally by our Director of Finance And two former CYC youth members have recently been hired as full-time staff
Our board of directors continues to strengthen and grow, and we have added one current youth member and one former youth/staff member to its ranks
Our youth and staff members offered their input regarding the qualities and skills they would like to see in CYC’s next permanent Executive Director. This input informed the crafting of this position’s job description, which has recently been posted toward the goal of bringing on the new leader sometime in the spring of 2025.
Imagine a young sapling, struggling to grow in a harsh environment Perhaps it’s isolated, disconnected from its roots, or facing challenges like drought or disease Much like this sapling, many young people today feel lost, disconnected, and uncertain about their future
At California Youth Connection (CYC), we believe that true well-being is rooted in connection Just as a tree's strength comes from its network of roots, young people thrive when they're connected to themselves, their families, their communities, and their future
The cohort model, a structured approach to learning and development, offers several benefits:
Shared Experience: Participants can learn from and support each other.
Stronger Bonds: The cohort model fosters a sense of community and belonging.
Accountability: Peer influence can motivate participants to stay on track
Collective Impact: The group can achieve more together, than individuals working alone.
Professional Development for Staff and Volunteers: The cohort model provides opportunities for ongoing learning and skill development for those who facilitate the program.
The Emerging Leaders of California Cohort is a transformative program designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders We are welcoming 25 young people into this new cohort model. This innovative program provides young people with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive
Key Program Components:
Monthly Leadership Labs: Virtual workshops to deepen learning.
In-Person Regional Gatherings: Connection with peers and mentors in the region
Leadership Development Conferences: Attend national, statewide, regional conferences and workshops.
Youth-Led Initiatives: Lead projects that address community needs
Mentorship and Coaching: Personalized support from experienced professionals.
The Emerging Leaders program is designed to provide a comprehensive and supportive leadership development experience. Through a combination of virtual and in-person learning opportunities, participants will have the chance to connect with peers, learn from experts, and gain hands-on experience.
To meet the diverse needs and aspirations of our participants, we offer four personalized leadership pathways:
Community Organizer: Develop skills in community mobilization, event planning, and grassroots advocacy.
1 Youth Experience Designer: Learn to create engaging and impactful youth programs and workshops.
2. Policy Advocate: Gain expertise in policy analysis, advocacy, and legislative engagement.
4.
3 Non-profit Professional: Acquire the skills needed to lead and manage nonprofit organizations.
At the core of our program is a focus on developing a strong "root system " This includes:
Self-Connection: Building self-awareness, self-esteem, and confidence.
Community Connection: Fostering strong relationships with loved ones and peers
Civic Connection: Empowering young people to participate in social justice efforts.
Future Connection: Envisioning and creating a bright future.
"I want to gain connections and make a positive impact on the foster care system."
"I hope to be more effective in our advocacy efforts by being able to analyze and teach about real-world issues."
"I have a deep desire to learn how to operate a non-profit in its entirety."
"I want to learn how to make policies to assist those who were adopted or lost a parent."
The CYC Statewide Membership Council (SMC) is a crucial component of California Youth Connection (CYC), serving as a governance and advisory body composed of youth representatives from each CYC chapter across California It embodies CYC’s commitment to youth-led decision-making, focusing on empowering foster youth to directly influence the organization’s direction and policy initiatives Through regular and structured meetings, the SMC plays a critical role in shaping the strategic direction of CYC, ensuring that the organization’s activities are closely aligned with the needs and priorities of its members
Composition: The SMC consists of one primary and one alternate youth member from each CYC chapter These members represent the voices and interests of their respective chapters at council meetings
Meetings: The council meets quarterly, providing a platform for members to discuss and make decisions about CYC’s activities and strategies.
Role of Chairpersons: All SMC meetings are organized and led by elected chairpersons, who facilitate discussions and ensure that meetings are productive.
Programmatic Decisions: The SMC assists CYC staff in making key programmatic decisions, such as chapter certifications, planning annual conferences, and shaping the legislative agenda This ensures that CYC’s actions are aligned with its mission and responsive to the needs of its members
Youth-Led Advocacy: The council ensures that CYC’s advocacy efforts remain youthled, with all programs developed to foster leadership and advocacy skills among foster youth
Feedback and Input: It serves as the primary youth-led forum for CYC members to input feedback on operational and governance decisions, facilitating a two-way communication channel between the staff, board of directors, and the youth members.
Co-Chairs have a broader role involving governance, communication engagement, and management. SMC Co-Chairs are elected by members.
Leadership & Governance
Co-Chairs work to create a fair decision-making process that includes all chapters. They help guide CYC’s advocacy work and set the organization’s priorities based on youth voices.
Communication
They keep members informed about leadership development opportunities, campaigns, events, and any organization updates.
Engagement
They work with CYC staff to make sure members have opportunities to contribute to programmatic decision-making.
Meeting Coordination
They plan and lead quarterly meetings to ensure all representatives have a chance to participate and make informed decisions.
Partnership
They work with CYC leadership, like the Board of Directors and the Executive Director, to align the organization’s goals.
Foster Youth In Action (FYIA) is California Youth Connection’s (CYC) national arm. Since its founding by CYC in 2008, FYIA has shared CYC’s deep commitment and passion for improving the foster care system. Today, FIYA is a program within CYC. FYIA is also a global movement empowering young people with foster care experience to drive systemic change FYIA has grown into a powerful network of youth-led organizations across the United States and Canada
FYIA's decentralized structure empowers local groups to innovate and adapt, ensuring a strong, resilient, and youth-centered movement This grassroots approach enables us to identify critical issues and develop effective solutions at the local level. By amplifying these state-level insights and experiences, we inform our national People's Agenda.
By investing in the potential of young people with foster care experience, we can create a world where all youth have the opportunity to thrive.
The People's Agenda is a collective vision, shaped by the diverse needs and perspectives of young people across the country. It prioritizes intersectional identities and addresses systemic barriers to ensure a just and equitable future for all This agenda is driven by the principle of all power to the people
To develop our People's Agenda, we embark on a rigorous, youth-led process. We conduct nationwide listening tours, virtual town halls, and surveys to gain invaluable insights into the challenges and aspirations of young people in foster care.
FYIA has had a profound impact on the lives of young people with foster care experience FYIA has empowered youth leaders to become powerful advocates for change, influencing policies and systems that directly affect their lives
Looking ahead, FYIA remains committed to: Expanding our network and reaching more young people. Strengthening its capacity to provide high-quality training and support. Elevating the voices of youth leaders on a national and international stage Advocating for policies that create a more equitable and just future for all.
Empowering Young Leaders:
The Leaders 4 Change Conference brought together youth leaders from across the nation for intensive training, skillbuilding, and networking opportunities.
Provided mentorship and coaching to emerging youth leaders, helping them develop their leadership skills and build their confidence.
Building a Strong Network:
Supported the creation and growth of numerous youth-led organizations, including Florida Youth Shine, and Georgia EmpowerMEnt.
Fostered collaboration and knowledge-sharing among our network members through virtual gatherings and in-person events
Driving Legislative Change:
Advocated for federal policies that support the needs of foster youth, including increased funding for mental health services, education, and housing
Supported local chapters in advocating for state and local policies that improve the lives of foster youth, resulting in groundbreaking legislation in nearly 20 states
The Training Department collaborated with the Conference Department in order to rebuild the impact of leadership development for youth members This collaboration creates opportunities for youth to come together statewide and strategically plan their advocacy initiatives, fostering a deeper root system of connection, and facilitating transformative learning experiences
The Training Vault: The Training Department successfully completed the first CYC Trainers Vault in Ontario, California. The event took place from June 9June 11, 2024. Six facilitators over the course of three days thoroughly reviewed previous curriculum. The facilitators created an updated curriculum to be used in future conference spaces
Youth Training Project (YTP): CYC is rebuilding YTP, to focus on developing the knowledge and skills CYC’s members will need to achieve their academic and professional goals Rather than being paid as part-time employees, many CYC members are now part of the Emerging Leaders Cohort, through which they will develop the tools they will use throughout their lives, and receive stipends for achieving benchmarks that track their leadership development.
California Youth Connection’s (CYC) conferences play a key role in advocacy and leadership development efforts. These conference spaces are designed to provide youth membership with opportunities to learn, connect, and take action on issues affecting their lives. Conferences are an important part of CYC’s efforts to empower foster youth and create systemic change. In 2024, CYC replaced Day at the Capitol (DAC) with a transformative convening event CYC also participated in Foster Youth In Action’s (FYIA) Leaders 4 Change Conference
CYC convened for an event that replaced the Day at the Capitol (DAC) structure, marking a pivotal moment in the organization's evolution. The convening brought together members, leadership, and stakeholders to reevaluate the organization’s direction, engage in difficult yet necessary conversations, and set the stage for future growth and sustainability
The convening was designed to be a unique and reflective event allowing participants to engage in key organizational priorities Central to the gathering were three main goals:
Examine the Organizational Budget: The community collectively reviewed the financial health of CYC, focusing on how resources are allocated and exploring ways to ensure fiscal responsibility 1. Re-evaluate and Set New Goals: CYC members had the opportunity to revisit the organization’s mission and objectives, discussing what had been achieved and what needed to be improved 2 Strategic Direction for the Future: Participants worked together to establish a clear vision for CYC’s future, identifying areas where the community can innovate, collaborate, and strengthen its impact. 3
The convening was a success in terms of both process and outcomes. Some of the key outcomes included:
A new set of strategic priorities outlining CYC's goals for the next several years
A clearer vision for leadership pathways for PTMs, as well as action steps for increasing member engagement and retention
A concrete framework for financial sustainability that balances the need for fiscal responsibility with the desire to support community-driven initiatives. Strengthened collaborative problemsolving skills and a deeper commitment to tackling difficult conversations as a collective
Participants left the convening equipped with a clear roadmap for moving forward together as a community.
As part of L4C, CYC members participated in the “Our Voices, Our Vision” event. This event honored the legacy of the youthdriven advocacy movement, and was held in conjunction with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Chafee Program. Guest speakers included advocates, policy makers, and members of the U.S. Congress and Senate
Leaders 4 Change (L4C) is an annual conference hosted by Foster Youth In Action (FYIA) The event is designed to gather FYIA’s nationwide network of youth-led organizations, providing them with skills, training, and networking opportunities to become effective advocates and leaders. L4C 2024 was hosted in Washington, D.C. Young leaders from several states presented issues affecting foster youth in their respective state to policy makers.
The Policy Round Table brought together key congressional staff with young advocates from youth-led organizations across the country These young advocates proposed policy solutions to issues affecting foster youth in their states Those invited to speak included CYC members and others from FYIA’s network. These young livedexperts received training and development to prepare for their presentations to policy makers
California Youth Connection (CYC) is a platform for young people with foster care experience to lead the charge for systemic change In 2024, our youth members took the lead in driving a powerful legislative agenda focused on five key areas: System Accountability, Transitional Services and Support, Placement Safety and Culture, Foster Youth Rights, and Housing
Throughout the year, our youth members engaged in a variety of advocacy activities, including:
Legislative Hearings: Testifying before legislative committees to share their lived experiences and advocate for policy changes.
Advocacy Meetings: Meeting with legislators and their staff to build relationships and advocate for our priorities.
Coalition Building: Collaborating with other youth-led organizations to amplify our voices and increase our impact.
Grassroots Advocacy: Mobilizing our network of supporters to contact legislators and urge them to support our agenda.
Advocated for increased transparency and accountability in the child welfare system, including improved data collection and reporting.
Called for stronger oversight of social workers to ensure they are adequately trained and supported.
Demanded accountability for agencies responsible for the wellbeing of foster youth.
Placement Safety and Culture FY Rights
Pushed for increased awareness of foster youth rights and the importance of upholding them
Advocated for stronger enforcement of youth rights and accountability for violations.
Called for improved communication between youth and their social workers to ensure their needs are being met
Demanded improved standards for foster homes and group homes to ensure the safety and well-being of youth
Called for increased training for foster parents and social workers on cultural competency and traumainformed care.
Advocated for policies that promote permanency and stability for foster youth.
Housing
Advocated for increased funding for affordable housing programs for foster youth
Called for the expansion of housing choice vouchers to help young people find stable housing.
Pushed for policies that support young people in maintaining their housing after leaving foster care
Transitional Services and Support
Pushed for increased funding for transitional housing programs to help young people successfully transition to independent living
Advocated for expanded access to education and job training programs for foster youth.
Called for the implementation of comprehensive transition planning to ensure that young people have the support they need to succeed
Through the unwavering dedication and leadership of our youth members, CYC has made significant strides in advancing the rights and well-being of foster youth in California. We are grateful for the support of our network of advocates, partners, and, most importantly, the young people who inspire us every day.
The Member Engagement Department has made significant strides in advancing youth-led advocacy and chapter activities across California. The department’s focus continues to be on empowering youth, developing leadership, and driving systemic change in local communities In 2024, the Member Engagement Department has made significant strides in Chapter activities, campaigns, and addressing local issues across all regions. With a focus on youth empowerment, advocacy, and systemic change, CYC Members have continued their work to amplify youth voices and ensure youth-led solutions are at the forefront of the conversation on foster care and systemic reform Through ongoing collaboration, leadership development, and community engagement, CYC is effectively advancing its mission to transform systems and provide lasting support for youth impacted by foster care.
The region’s focus remained on six key priorities under the FYDEAS framework: Foster Stability | Youth Justice Reimagined | DCFS Accountability | Education | Authentic Youth Engagement | Support for Former Foster Youth
Policy Briefing & Proposals: Members hosted a Policy Briefing where they presented their policy proposals to over 15 community partners, including DCFS and Children’s Law Center. This briefing led to valuable feedback and further development of advocacy strategies
Leadership Academy: Ginger Castillo and Clarissa Peña facilitated a 6-week Leadership Academy at Children’s Institute in Watts, equipping foster youth leaders with critical advocacy and organizing skills focused on youth-led organizing and the systems impacting youth.
FYI Voucher Campaign: Progress continued in the campaign to increase access to FYI vouchers The number of public housing authorities with MOUs increased from 2 to 10, and work continues to ensure successful youth leasing and landlord incentives
Enrich Program Launch: Members played a crucial role in the launch of the Enrich Program, offering a $500/month stipend to youth aged 18-20 in extended foster care for extracurricular activities. This program follows recommendations from CYC members regarding guaranteed income and continues to be a key initiative.
The Far Southern Region has focused on base building, outreach, and leadership development:
• Regional Chapter Meetings: Continued efforts to engage youth in leadership roles, ensuring youth were equipped with skills to lead meetings and participate in advocacy efforts
• Leadership Development: Youth attended major advocacy events like the Alliance for Boys and Men of Color and Leaders 4 Change FYIA Conference in Washington D C , allowing them to expand their leadership and advocacy networks.
Despite the transition of the Central Valley CAC to the Far Southern Region, the Central Valley Region continued strong advocacy and youth-led development:
• Chapter Meetings: The region continues to host regular meetings via Zoom, ensuring youth engagement and chapter growth.
• Campaigns: Advocacy continues around FYI vouchers and local policy proposals aimed at improving outcomes for foster youth in the Central Valley
In the Bay Area Region, work has successfully continued based on previously established efforts: Networking & Collaboration: Members hosted a Contra Costa County event focused on the development of transition-aged foster youth in the entertainment industry. This collaboration creates new opportunities for youth in this sector
Chapter Campaigns:
Contra Costa: Members are finalizing a mental health curriculum for social workers and preparing to host a summit in the next six months
Alameda: Members are researching the extension of foster care to age 25 and preparing to launch a local campaign advocating for this policy change.
In the South Bay Area, youth development and collaborations remained central to the chapter's activities:
• Chapter Meetings: The Pizza my Heart SJ meeting allowed members to develop skills such as public speaking, quick decision-making, and local activism
• Partnerships: A collaboration with the Hub Center in Santa Clara provides support for Independent Living Skills (ILP) and resource coordination for youth.
• Continued Recruitment: San Mateo County and Monterey chapters continue to build partnerships and focus on local advocacy, including RFA placements and policy proposals for the local government.
In the Northern Region, significant progress was made in advocacy and youth leadership development:
• Butte FYBOR Project: This project aims to raise awareness of the Foster Youth Bill of Rights (FYBOR) and empower youth to advocate for their rights. Positive outcomes include increased youth confidence and leadership development
• Sacramento Basic Income Program: After months of advocacy, the Sacramento Children’s Fund voted to allocate 20% of its funds to a basic income program for aging-out foster youth The focus will now shift to implementation and ensuring adequate support for the program.
Chapter activities have centered around local issues and youth-led advocacy:
• Hoopa Chapter: Focused on collaborating with the Yurok Tribal Council to improve services for tribal youth and create a youth tribal council. Advocacy for ICWA rights has been a key priority
• Humboldt Chapter: Continued their work with local organizations like HCTAYC to advocate for youth rights, FYI voucher usage, and the creation of a juvenile justice youth position on the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Board
• Shasta Chapter: Focused on advocating for homelessness services for youth and engaging in state-level advocacy for the Housing Navigator Program The chapter also raised $200 through a MOD Pizza fundraiser for local youth initiatives.
Fiscal Year: 2023 - 2024
California Youth Connection (CYC) has several local chapters throughout the state In each of these chapters there is a need for adult volunteer supporters to work with and assist CYC members to reach the goals of the organization. In 2024 CYC had 30 active volunteer supporters, with 12 of those volunteers supporting on-call needs
Volunteer supporters help CYC members lead the organization by:
Working with members to define and work on local issues
Assist in preparation for meetings and presentations.
Support members when they travel to statewide conferences and speaking engagements.
Providing resources that range from food, school supplies, transportation, mentorship, emotional support, and more.
“Being a CYC Volunteer Supporter is incredibly rewarding Witnessing the growth and professionalism of the youth as they work to make changes in the foster care laws/ system is truly inspiring. Their dedication and the impact they make are invaluable ” - Valerie Michelle Hartley, Volunteer Supporter for 17 years with the Far North Chapter.
financial summary for July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024
Our organizational chart serves as a clear and visual representation of the structure that enables our non-profit to fulfill its mission. It outlines the key roles and reporting relationships within the organization, ensuring that each team member understands their responsibilities and how they contribute to CYC’s goals. By clearly defining leadership, departments, and collaboration lines, the org chart enhances communication, fosters efficiency, and supports effective decision-making. As we continue to grow and expand our impact, this structure allows us to adapt, plan, and align resources to best serve our community and advance our mission.
Thank you to these organizations and individuals for their generous financial donations that enabled California Youth Connection to continue our operations and important work in the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Your contributions help empower and uplift youth voices.
Andrus Family Fund
Anthony Pritzker Family Foundation
Barry McCabe
California Community Foundation -
Ready to Rise
California Department of Social Services
Community Learning
Conrad N Hilton Foundation
County of San Mateo
Cunningham Foundation
CWDA Santa Clara
CWDA Ventura
Enterprise Mobility Foundation
Eric and Ming Zee
Hazen Foundation
Humboldt County office of Education
Hummingbird Fund
James Parriot and Diane Cary
Jamie Lee Evans
Liberty Hill
Lutheran Social Service- Mankato
May & Stanley Smith Charitable Trust
Nebraska Children and Families
Foundation
Reissa Foundation
Roger Marheine
Sierra Health Foundation - Elevate
Youth California
Stuart Foundation
The de Vos Family Foundation
The W. Clement and Jessie V. Stone
Foundation
TK Spirit Fund
Youth Law Center
Youth Move National
Youth Power Fund at Amalgamated
Charitable Foundation
Zellerbach Family Foundation
California Youth Connection (CYC) empowers foster youth ages 14–24 to build leadership skills and forge supportive relationships while advocating for child welfare reforms that directly impact their lives. To build their skills, CYC members receive one-on-one support and mentoring, specialized training, and frequent opportunities to speak to policymakers, child welfare practitioners, other foster youth, and the general public.
How to Make a Gift
You can empower foster youth and ensure a more equitable future for all California Youth Connection is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization All donations are tax-deductible
Learn more at https://calyouthconn.org/
To give by mail:
Please make checks payable to California Youth Connection and send to: 490 Lake Park Ave #10675 Oakland, CA 94610
To give digitally: You can donate securely online at https://givebutter.com/CYC
Follow our Movement @calyouthconn
California Youth Connection (CYC) members are the pulse of the organization CYC members contribute their expertise, time, and knowledge to guide the organization through our movement. For over 35 years, CYC members have contributed to powerful legislation and laws that have changed the lives of foster youth.
Thank you to all of our members, staff, FYIA network, and supporters who appear in the photos throughout this report.
