Youth Speak Out Events
- transition plan, housing, future, experience, mentors, relationships, youth
- Housing, Money, Transitioning Out of Care, Resources for Parents, Guardians, Families, Resources for Professionals, Resources for Teens and Young Adults
From Foster Care to Freedom: Guiding the Next Chapter
Reflections on 2025 Youth Speak Out Events
What is a Youth Speak Out?
A speak out event is an annual youth-led gathering across New York State, organized by YIP (Youth In Progress) a program within NYS OCFS. I’m the OCFS intern for Region 1 this year and was so honored to be a part of the day! These events bring youth together each year to share their experiences, discuss challenges and voice their ideas for positive change.
Common themes in Region 1:
- Mental Health and Wellness- Coping skills, dealing with trauma, needing more support/therapy while in care.
- Healthy Relationships- Setting boundaries, navigating friendships, building family/foster family relationships
- Safe and supportive environment- Homes/Facilities not always clean, staff/foster parents don’t respect religious and cultural beliefs, etc.
- Consistency, stability, and connection- Kids are being moved around a lot, not being able to talk to/visit siblings, feeling alone.
- Youth voice and advocacy- wanting to be heard in court, more communication between staff and youth, not feeling heard when boundaries are being crossed.
Why should I attend?
The speak out event isn’t just another meeting; it’s a chance for you to speak your truth to people who listen and can make changes (there were over 40 youth and 60 adult partners at the region 1 event). It’s a chance for you to meet other youth who understand what you’ve been through, share stories, share laughs, and who knows, maybe you’ll even meet some lifelong friends.
It’s a safe space to say what’s on your mind- the good, the bad, and the real. Your words can help shape the future for youth in foster care.
Plus, there’s free food, cool activities, workshops, and no judgment. You don’t have to be a public speaker; just be yourself. This is your mic. Your moment. Your story.
My Experience:
During the speak out portion of the event, I had to allow myself to be vulnerable for my share because not only did I want to raise awareness about staff/youth boundaries, but I also wanted to create a safe space for the youth to feel comfortable sharing their truths. It was a lot to process after I shared. I felt very anxious after, but I was proud of myself for getting through it.
Overall, I felt that the day went well! I met a lot of new people and heard a lot of stories that reminded me that I’m not alone in some of the things I’ve been through. It was very healing for me to speak my truth out loud and to see the impact it had on other girls and the staff that attended.
Don’t miss the chance to be heard, be understood, and be part of the change- because the future of foster care starts with a voice like yours.
I hope to see you all next year!