Jonny Barlett is based out of Hawthorne, California, and is exceedingly passionate about improving outcomes, specifically in the realms of academia and mental health, for youth impacted by the child welfare system and other systems alike. Jonny dedicates his time to mentoring, advising, and developing meaningful connections with at-risk youth and those who hail from underprivileged backgrounds.

With a firm belief that education and connection can completely alter the trajectory of one’s life, Jonny catapults his passion into action through NFYI, focusing on bolstering educational outcomes for foster youth and vastly improving the current state of permanency planning. In addition to NFYI, he serves as a college adviser for USC’s College Advising Corps, where he helps over 200 disadvantaged youth from Compton, California, create and execute goal-oriented post-secondary plans. Furthermore, Jonny works as a foster youth ambassador for the Youth Engagement Project, where he partners with Yolo County and Los Angeles County ILP to create direct differences in the lives of those who are impacted by the child welfare system.

Outside of his advocacy work, Jonny enjoys exploring new places with his partner, skateboarding, watching the UFC, and collecting music memorabilia. Through the Congressional Leadership Academy, he hopes to gain community, leadership, and confidence that he can apply to his future career as a licensed clinical social worker.