2027
Young Adult Advocate Program
JBAY's Young Adult Advocate Program prepares young adults who have experienced foster care or homelessness to become leaders, advocates, and changemakers.
Applications for the 2027 JBAY Young Adult Advocate Program cohort are now closed. To learn more, watch the virtual information session to the right or download the slides below.
Complete this form to be notified when applications open for the 2028 cohort.
ELIGIBLE YOUNG ADULTS
- Ages 18–27
- Experienced foster care or homelessness at age 13 or older
- Located in the Sacramento area
- Interested in learning about or advocating for policy change
THE PROGRAM
- One-year term with the option to extend to two
- Compensated $26 per hour plus reimbursement for travel and meal expenses
- Based on three-part leadership model
THREE-PART LEADERSHIP MODEL
The YAA Program combines leadership development, hands-on policy experience, and applied research to expose young people to careers in advocacy while advancing JBAY’s mission.
LEARN
Young Adult Advocates develop the skills and relationships needed for long-term leadership through:
- Mentorship from JBAY policy experts
- Job shadowing and exposure to nonprofit advocacy
- Leadership and professional development workshops
- Training in public speaking, communications, policy analysis, and advocacy
INFLUENCE
Young Adult Advocates help shape systems change by:
- Completing a collaborative policy capstone project
- Conducting research informed by lived experience
- Developing recommendations for policymakers and practitioners
- Presenting findings and strategic storytelling to local, state, and national stakeholders
LEAD
Young Adult Advocates may engage directly in the policymaking and implementation process by providing an on-the-ground perspective on how policy impacts young people:
- Testifying before the California Legislature at committee hearings
- Engaging with the media by authoring op-eds and speaking at press conferences, rallies, and public events
- Participating in policy workgroups, advisory bodies, and coalitions
- Supporting the development of youth-centered resources, trainings, and outreach materials
To spread the word, share this YAA Program Overview.
To learn more, contact the YAA Program’s coordinator, Cody Van Felden at [email protected].