Advocating for Systems Change

Young people aging out of foster care endure poor outcomes with high social costs. At age 18, they leave the system without the life experiences and necessary family supports to become successful adults. National data provided by the Annie E. Casey Foundation shows that by their 19th birthdays:

• 1 out of 3 experienced homelessness
• 3 out of 5 have not obtained their high school diploma/GED
• 2 out of 3 are unemployed

Similarly, young people who are impacted by the juvenile justice system or homelessness may face the same challenges. They often have a history of trauma , neglect, or abuse and have few healthy social connections. Most mainstream initiatives are unable to address the complex barriers and challenges faced by those who have experienced systems.

To address these outcomes, NMCAN’s policy work is more than just advocating for legislation. We are building a movement where young people and partners come together to build community, promote equity, and lead change. We are committed to working in partnership with young people to ensure they have a respected voice and full participation in the development of programs and policies designed to support them, and to confirm that existing laws and policies are meaningfully and consistently implemented statewide.