Mission
CYC is a youth led organization that develops leaders who empower each other and their communities to transform the foster care system through legislative and policy change.
Vision
Foster youth will be equal partners in contributing to all policies and decisions made in their lives. All youth in foster care will have their needs met and the support to grow into healthy and vibrant adults.
Overview
Since our founding in 1988, the foster youth experience in California has been transformed, and so too have the thousands of foster youth who have joined CYC, becoming confident, effective advocates for themselves and generations of foster youth. Through CYC, youth gain advocacy and job skills, education and career connections, and most importantly, a community of peers. Our work has resulted in the passage of dozens of new laws that have profoundly improved the lives of the 60,000 children and youth in California’s foster care system. CYC has established a unique model of youth empowerment through sophisticated policy advocacy.
Today, hundreds of current and former foster youth are organized into youth-led chapters in 29 California counties. By participating in our three annual youth-led conferences and our robust training program, CYC members develop essential skills and engage directly with policymakers.
CYC has offices in Emeryville, Los Angeles, Fresno, and Sacramento
Board of Directors
CYC’s bylaws require that a majority of board seats be reserved for current and former foster youth; however, all are welcome. The CYC board is composed of professionals across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, mostly throughout California. The board seeks individuals with diverse experiences and skills, including but not limited to, accounting, marketing, fundraising, and human resources.
Strong candidates have:
Interest in the leadership development of current and former foster youth
A track record that demonstrates an ability to think strategically and creatively
Strong teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills
Commitment to supporting CYC through in-kind resources and fundraising
Board Member Commitment
- Quarterly Saturday board meetings in Emeryville (four meetings per year)
- Read board meeting materials to prepare for board meetings
- Respond to requests for input and conference calls in a timely manner
- Lead and/or participate in at least one standing subcommittee
- Help with securing in-kind resources, making connections, and fundraising
- Provide an annual financial donation that you deem significant
Questions?
Reach out to Erica Hickey at ericah@calyouthconn.org or Gail Yen at gaily@calyouthconn.org.