The Fair Futures Youth Advisory Board is dedicated to advocating for New York City's foster youth in providing them with the necessary supports they deserve.
As a coalition of 100+ organizations, Fair Futures developed the Youth Advisory Board (YAB) to successfully coordinate current and former foster youth with strong voices to advocate for their needs.
Mission
"We believe that all youth can learn, attain greater independence and shape their futures. The Fair Futures Youth Advisory Board believes that each youth should lead with purpose and integrity. The board wants to ensure that youth reach their full potential, exercising their right to advocate and to reach an audience on their behalf."
Key YAB Accomplishments
Stories that matter, advocacy with impact.
Meet the YAB
YAB Coordinator
Tony provides guidance and leadership, recruits members, and coordinates with the Fair Futures Steering Committee.
Tony is a graduate of Columbia University and hosts a weekly Podcast about experiences in the foster care system.
HeartShare St. Vincent's Services
Forestdale inc
A recent graduate of Queens College who has been advocating for foster care for the past 10 years, working with fair futures from the beginning to help and support her fellow youth.
Coalition for Hispanic Family Services
10th Grade Student.
Instagram: @fairfutures_advocate
"Pleasure to be part of the board."
HeartShare St. Vincent's Services
"Hey y’all, my name is Danny Washington. I believe that what we can’t accomplish on our own we can accomplish together."
Catholic Guardian
"My name is Kelsie and I am dedicated to helping underprivileged youth. I am proud to be part of such a hardworking team!"
SCO Family of Services
"I currently attend John Jay College of Criminal Justice, majoring in Psychology. My goal for the future is to become a social worker so that I can continue helping foster children around the world."
Graham Windham
Wilmary Rodriguez is an NYC foster care alumnus with international experience in the child welfare system. After graduating from Bard College in 2018, she worked in India, Uganda, Costa Rica, Peru, and the Philippines during a year-long fellowship as a Watson Scholar. She currently works as a Socio-Therapist with children in NYC's foster care system and is pursuing her Masters degree in Social Work and Public Policy.
Graham Windham
Dylan Tatom is a LaGuardia Community College student and a recent John Jay College graduate. Dylan has spent her time using her experience to improve the lives of those who are currently in foster care. Dylan is dedicated to using her voice to empower others and make changes to the child welfare system.
HeartShare St. Vincent's Services
Hi! My name is Cheyanne Deopersaud and I'm currently a sophomore at John Jay college pursuing a Human Services and Community Justice major and following my dreams of being a professional and meaningful advocate for others and myself.
Want more YAB?
Follow us on Instagram! @fairfutures_yab
