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Youth Congress

What is Youth Congress?

Youth Congress aims to engage Missouri youth in co-designing prevention and support services, allowing children and families to stay safely in their homes and communities. By involving youth in the Connected Communities - Thriving Families initiative through Youth Congress, we can ensure that our vision, policies, practices and procedures reflect their lived experiences and perspectives. Youth Congress will bring new energy, information and knowledge into community conversations through youth-targeted, age- and gender-sensitive interventions. As part of developing the future leaders of our communities, Youth Congress members will play key roles in shaping and implementing solutions to address family and community needs.
youth meeting together

Youth Testimony

"As a member of Youth Congress, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when young people come together to advocate for change in the foster care system. Many of us have lived through the challenges of foster care, and this program gives us a platform to share our experiences, push for policy improvements, and ensure that the voices of youth are heard by decision-makers. Through Youth Congress, we’re not just talking about change — we’re actively making it happen. Whether it’s fighting for better resources, improved support for aging out youth, or policies that prioritize stability and well-being, we are making a real impact. This program has given me the confidence to speak up, the knowledge to understand the system, and the community to keep pushing forward. I’ve been given opportunities that I used to only dream about, like talking to law makers, which has happened because of Youth Congress."

— A.D., Youth Congress member

Apply to Young Congress

Young Congress Application

  • Your own lived experience with the foster care system
  • What issues you would like the Youth Congress to address
  • What strengths you will bring to Youth Congress
  • Write as much or as little as you like. Nothing you write will be shared outside of the MCC CC-TF team without your permission.

Get Involved

Through MCC’s initiatives, we aim to amplify the voices of community and those with lived experiences to help them spark change in Missouri communities. Our Connected Communities - Thriving Families initiative includes our Youth Congress, Parent Ambassadors and Statewide Champions, forming groups of like-minded individuals who work together for the greater good of Missouri children and families.
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