INDIANA – The Indiana Foster Youth Alliance (IFYA) will host its 11th Annual Youth Conference TODAY, June 11, at the University of Indianapolis.
The free conference is the only event in Indiana created by foster youth specifically for foster youth and young adults transitioning out of care. Designed by members of IFYA, with support from Foster Success, the conference provides resources, education, and tools to young people ages 14-22 with lived experience in the foster care system. Adults supporting youth in care are also encouraged to attend.
This year’s theme, “We Are the Change!,” celebrates the leadership, resilience, and voices of young people with foster care experience. More than 200 youth, advocates, and foster care professionals are expected to attend the event, which will include breakout sessions, networking opportunities, community resources, and interactive activities focused on preparing young people for success beyond foster care.
The conference will feature a keynote address from Lexie Butler, an Alumni Advocate with Foster Alumni Mentors (FAM) and a former foster youth who now empowers young people through mentorship, self-advocacy, and leadership development. Drawing from her own experience navigating the foster care system, Butler advocates nationally for foster youth and encourages young people to recognize the power of their voices and their potential to lead.
More information and conference registration can be found at www.fostersuccess.org.
