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Making
Foster Care a better place to be
Ever
hear the saying "All Politics is Local?" It’s true!
The U.S. Congress, your state legislature, and local decision makers
really do act on what is of concern to citizens, and that includes
you and your concerns!
Why
should I care?
Many great people have made a difference with just an idea and lots
of courage and persistence! Take Adam
Cornell, for example, he was able to get free tuition
for foster youth in Oregon! And now every year lots of former foster
youth can go to college much more easily! Read
what he has to say about being an advocate.
There
are a lot of people out there your age doing amazing things. And
you can do it too (read about some of them in our success
stories). We’ll show you how in this section.
What
can I do?
First, choose your issue! Find out what’s
happening in your locality, state, or in Congress. What issue
would you like to be involved with? Then learn how government works
and learn who your reps are.
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SPEAK UP! Your story is captivating and engaging. Your opinions
weigh in heavily. A young person’s voice means so much more
to legislators and decision makers than does someone who is older
and has no firsthand experience. Join a speakers panel or join a
group that does advocacy work.
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Advise your county agency or state agency. Join a youth
advisory council.
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Write letters to the editor.
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Write letters to local decision makers or your state and
federal representatives
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Call your local, state, and federal representatives.
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And, most important of all, when you are 18, register to
vote, and VOTE!
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Other ways to be involved in politics.
What
about me?!
Learn how to advocate for yourself too!
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