National Policy Advocacy for Transition-Aged Youth

Through national coalition-building and close strategic partnerships, Youth Law Center leads efforts to reshape the systems that impact youth transitioning from foster care. We coordinate and support federal and state advocacy to ensure young people aging out of care have access to the foundational supports needed for a successful adulthood-housing, education, financial aid, income, permanency, and health. 

As lead convener of the Federal Older Youth Advocacy Coalition, YLC brings together over 30 organizations to advance policy change rooted in lived experience, racial equity, and long-term impact. Born from crisis response during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Coalition has grown into a powerful national forum for coordinating and advancing federal and state policy and systemic change for transition-aged youth to respond to urgent gaps in housing, food security, income, and services. What began as a rapid-response network advocating for emergency provisions in the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act has evolved into a sustained, collaborative policy engine. The coalition now meets regularly to develop policy agendas, coordinate legislative strategy, and share resources and information. In 2024, members led efforts around mental health, racial equity, financial aid access,  tax filing barriers, and transitional housing reforms- while continuing to elevate youth voices in all advocacy efforts.

YLC also helps coordinate the Journey to Success campaign, a national initiative focused on transforming policies for transition-aged youth through shared strategic priorities, technical assistance, and policy development. By driving change through collaboration and centering youth leadership, we’re helping build a more just and supportive future for all transition-aged youth.