Creating true systemic change takes the coordinated effort of many, often taking years of work. But the impact is clear – changing systems changes lives. In this episode, we asked two leaders in public policy: What does it truly take to transform the child welfare system for future generations?

Time and again, young people have told us they needed community, stability, and support. That’s what being a family is all about, and that is at the heart of MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™. We asked child welfare experts and the first Mockingbird Family: What potential does this program hold for the future of foster care?

Want to know what young people experiencing foster care or homelessness think of the system? Ask them. In this episode, youth advocates share their experiences advocating for change, and outline the impact it has the lives of young people.

Our second-ever virtual youth leadership Summit was a success! Young advocates from across the state came together to present their recommendations to the Office of Homeless Youth and the Supreme Court Commissions on Children in Foster Care. Topics raised by Mockingbird’s young people included Safe and Affirming Placements for LGBTQ+ Youth, Expunging Criminal Records and Increasing Access to Financial Literacy Skills. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on the progress of these important issues. If you weren’t able to join us, you can watch the full video below! Chapter presentations begin at 15:56.