Blog
The Importance of Youth Leadership in Child Welfare
At A Second Chance, Inc., we believe that the future of child welfare is shaped by the voices of the children and youth at the center of the system. Youth leadership isn’t just an idea, it’s a movement. It is a powerful way for young people to stand up for themselves, support their peers, and transform the systems designed to serve them.
Youth in care bring unique perspectives, lived experiences, and insights that adults alone cannot fully understand. When we listen to their voices, we learn what truly matters: what works, what doesn’t, and what is needed to build safe, supportive, and empowering environments. Leadership opportunities allow youth to share their stories, influence decision-making, and actively participate in shaping the policies and programs that affect their lives.
Leadership is about more than being heard; it’s about growth. Youth leaders develop confidence, resilience, and skills that last a lifetime. They learn to navigate challenges, advocate for themselves and others, and see the value of their contributions. These experiences create a sense of ownership and pride, helping youth in care recognize their own potential and the impact they can have on their communities.
At ASCI, we are committed to fostering youth leadership by creating spaces where children and teens can lead, learn, and thrive. Whether through advisory boards, mentorship programs, or workshops. Every opportunity is a chance to cultivate confidence, ensuring that youth perspectives guide meaningful change in child welfare.
The work of child welfare is complex, but the voices of youth are clear: they want to be seen, heard, and included. By empowering youth leadership, we are not only investing in the success of individual children, but we are also building stronger systems, more resilient communities, and brighter futures.
At ASCI, youth leadership isn’t just encouraged, it’s essential. Every young person has the power to lead, to inspire, and to change the world around them.