Amplifying those with Lived Experience: Honoring Foster Youth Voice Month
We’re proud to feature a guest post from Christian Anderson, a member of the REACH Youth Action Board. In honor of Foster Youth Voice Month, Chris shares why uplifting the voices of those with lived experience is essential to transforming the foster care system and building a future rooted in dignity and empowerment:
Honoring Foster Youth Voice Month
Every October, people from all ages come together and we celebrate Foster Youth Voice Month. A time where we are showing our dedication to uplifting the voices, stories, and leadership of those who have experienced foster care. To me it is more than just a month of recognition it is a movement that reminding us that young people who have been affected by the system are not just solely that but are also change makers who can transform it.
The Power of Lived Experience
The term “Lived Experience” is much more than just a buzzword, it’s the root of authentic change. It represents the expertise that comes from walking through the realities of foster care firsthand. With these voices come depth, empathy, and vital truth that data alone cannot capture. Professionals and policymakers may have studied the system, but those who have lived through it know its barriers and its potential on a deeper level.
When current youth and alumni come together and share their experiences, they begin to make policy discussions more humanized and help create the fundamental bridges of understanding that help lead to better outcomes. These voices challenge stereotypes, reshape narratives, and are sparking innovative ideas that truly reflect what really works and what does not.
Why Foster Youth Voices Matter
Too often, decisions about foster care are made for young people but without them. It has been shown on many occasions that the most effective and long lasting solutions are made from collaboration. When we bring along and empower the people who are most affected by the systems and include them in designing it that’s how we are able to make true collaboration. Foster youth voices ensure that programs are not only well intended for its audience but are also impactful. Youth-led advocacy has been something that has been sparking positive changes all over the nation. From being able to improve independent living services, and housing supports, to developing mentoring programs that help young people in foster care navigate the system. Every story being shared, every policy being influenced, and every leadership opportunity being made and used becomes a step forward in a system that is rooted in dignity, healing, and empowerment.
A Call to Action
As we honor Foster Youth Voice Month, let’s be sure to not only just commit to spreading awareness, let’s commit to taking action. Be sure to listen when youth speak, create spaces where they can lead, and support organizations and initiatives driven by those who have lived experience. Because when we create spaces to elevate these voices, we don’t just celebrate surviving and overcoming the system, we invest in continued transformation. Remember Foster Youth Voice Month is a reminder that our stories have power, our experiences have value, and together, our voices can build the future we all deserve.