Message from Outgoing Board Chair, Wendy Smith Meyer:

For the past four years, I have been privileged to serve as Chair of NFYI’s Board of Directors, working with so many of you to expand our community of caring to lift up the voices of foster youth. As I prepare to pass the baton to our incoming Chair, Doug Bond, in January, I’ve been reflecting on the extraordinary young people who define this organization and the many supporters — like you — who make their leadership possible.

I have one final request as I close out my term as Chair: Please consider making an end-of-year gift to support NFYI’s work with current and former foster youth.

During this past year, I witnessed foster youth leaders stand before members of Congress with courage, honesty, and conviction. They asked the kind of questions that shift perspectives — about breaking stigma, building confidence, and creating systems that see young people as whole human beings. They led conversations rooted in shared purpose rather than differences. I watched the expertise that comes from lived experience transform policymaking in real time, as multiple pieces of legislation were introduced incorporating the ideas and language of our program participants.

As a licensed clinical social worker, child welfare researcher, and advocate for children and families, I know how essential relationships, support, and community are for transition-age youth. NFYI provides that support through leadership development and policy advocacy, and through programs that care for the whole person.

One example is DJay’s Corner, a wellness space NFYI created in honor of a beloved program participant who believed every young person deserves quality mental health care. Individual and group wellness opportunities at DJay’s Corner are provided by mental health professionals. The youth who attend our events know that this special place is always there for them, to recharge when they need to, with caring, knowledgeable people who are committed to helping them in their leadership journey.

I have seen what happens when foster youth are met with caring, community, professional development, and the space to be heard:

They step into their power.
They shape policy.
They change their own lives — and the lives of others.

I invite you to join me in ensuring that this work continues by making a year-end gift to NFYI. It is your partnership that enables us to keep building a child welfare system rooted in care, accountability, and opportunity for every young person.

Thank you for being part of this community, and for standing with these remarkable young leaders. I have been with NFYI since its beginning, and I have seen the impact of its work on youth, on policy makers, and on the child welfare system. I will continue to be a part of that vital work as a member of the board — and I hope you will continue with us.

With gratitude,
Wendy Smith Meyer, Ph.D., LCSW
Outgoing Chair, Board of Directors
National Foster Youth Institute