Congressional Leadership Academy & Shadow Day Program

Geographic Scope: National, with in-person Shadow Day in Washington, D.C.

Program Overview: A 10-month leadership experience that connects foster youth to decision-makers and members of Congress. Participants learn about policy topics centered in NFYI's policy agenda and priorities to the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth (CCFY).

Eligibility:

• Current foster youth
• Alumni of foster care

Program Components:

• Online training, huddles, and webinars (5 months)
• In-person Congressional Shadow Day in Washington, D.C. (June 2023, dates subject to change)
• Curriculum includes:
  • Federal foster care policy overview
  • Community organizing
  • Guidance on speaking to decision-makers
  • Understanding of Congressional committees, caucuses, and Member of Congress operations
  • Federal and state government connections

Participation Details:

• Limited to approximately 50 Delegates for in-person Shadow Day experience
• Delegates represent foster youth and alumni across the nation
• Opportunity to meet policymakers and inform legislation and policy recommendations

Timeline: 10-month commitment (February 2023-October 2023 for 2023 cohort)

Selection: Competitive selection process. Non-selected applicants may be placed on waitlist for consideration in future years.

Organization: National Foster Youth Institute (NFYI), a youth development organization that lifts up foster youth voices to transform the child welfare system.

Application Process

1. Complete Interest Form/Application
   • Application should be completed intentionally and thoughtfully
   • Applicants are considered alongside others across the nation
2. Selection
   • Competitive selection process
   • Non-selected applicants may be placed on waitlist
   • Applicants encouraged to reapply in future years

Application URL: Click link on apply page (specific URL not provided in content, but referenced as available on https://nfyi.org/apply)