May is National Foster Care Month!

Help us raise awareness!

More than 400,000 children and youth experience foster care in the U.S. Did you know that each year, the month of May is dedicated to raising national awareness of this system? On April 30, President Obama officially recognized the efforts of social workers, teachers, family members, friends, and the entire network of individuals who support young people in care. He also emphasized that "Every child deserves to grow, learn, and dream in a supportive and loving environment."

The Mockingbird Society is dedicated to achieving youth-inspired systems reform year-round. In 2014, we have already made a significant impact! Our wins during this year's legislative session included:

• Extended Foster Care (HB 2335) - Several times during the legislative session, it looked like this bill would not become law. But in February, over 250 youth and allies rallied to support this reform on Youth Advocacy Day, and lawmakers heard their voices! Youth working 80 hours or more per month are now eligible to enroll in the Extended Foster Care program!
• Prudent Parent Standard (SB 6479) - Advocates from the Mockingbird Youth Network successfully urged legislators to compromise on this bill to maintain its intended impact. Thanks to their hard work, foster parents can now make safe, responsible decisions related to normal childhood activities on behalf of youth in their care! This reform also reduces previous delays and unnecessary barries that arose when the state required social workers' approval. 
• Legal Representation (SB 6126) - The state must now appoint attorneys for legally free foster youth six months after their birth parents' rights have been terminated. This is a step in the right direction to help guarantee that more foster youth have a voice in court! 
• Youth Opportunities Act (HB 1651) - When youth with certain juvenile records turn 18, they will now have the chance to make a fresh start! This law will improve access to housing, education, and employment opportunities for these young people!

We are also working hard to expand the Mockingbird Family Model. We are excited about developing new constellation sites throughout Western Washington! National Foster Care Month coincides with our efforts to establish new connections in Snohomish and Pierce counties.  The MFM team is also working closely with Children's Administration to replicate our model. We appreciate the agency's strong partnership in this effort!

Let us know how YOU intend to participate in National Foster Care Month! And visit the campaign's Facebook page to learn more about the nation-wide response!