Erin is a student at the University of California Santa Cruz double majoring in history & critical race and ethnic studies. With lived experience in both the foster care and juvenile justice system, Erin is committed to helping ensure young adults facing similar adverse challenges receive the support they need to better navigate adulthood, cultivate self-sufficiency, and create a dignified life. In addition to her advocacy work with JBAY, Erin works as a peer mentor in the foster youth support program on campus at UCSC, and sits on the board of Ojai based non-profit organization, Mesa Farm, which provides housing for former foster and homeless youth in Ventura County. She is the proud mother of two mischievous young boys and two mischievous orange tabbies!
John Burton Advocates for Youth improves the quality of life for youth in California who have been in foster care or homeless by advocating for better laws, training communities to strengthen local practices and conducting research to inform policy solutions.