Supporting Foster Youth Through the Child Welfare System
Leroy, age 19, is a student at the University of Texas Pan-American and an advocate for foster youth and child welfare system change. As a former foster youth, Leroy struggled with abuse, neglect, and mental health issues as a result of the trauma he experienced in seven different foster homes. Leroy found support from a case worker who listened to him and encouraged him to speak up for himself and others. He is now an active advocate for foster youth who has taken on leadership positions, including his role as a Youth Member of the Texas Council on Children and Families, that allow him to educate child welfare professionals and policymakers about the experiences of foster youth. Leroy hopes to pursue a master’s degree in criminal justice and social work and become a social worker with child protective services (CPS).
We asked Leroy to share his story and offer recommendations for youth in foster care.
More Inspiring Stories
