Caitlyn Eccles’ Post

Honored to share that I've been selected as a 2026 delegate for the National Foster Youth Institute's Congressional Leadership Academy (CLA)! Youth voices and lived experience are not just important additions to child welfare conversations, they are essential to building policies that actually work. Being part of a national cohort dedicated to bringing those perspectives directly into federal policy spaces is both meaningful and energizing. In my work across research, programming, and advocacy, I see every day how thoughtful collaboration between policymakers, partitioners, and people with lived experience can drive real change. I'm excited to learn alongside leaders from across the country, engage with decision-makers, and continue strengthening solutions that expand opportunity and improve outcomes for young people and families. Grateful for the mentors, colleagues, and communities who continue to push this work forward and I'm incredibly excited for what comes next! #NFYI #CongressionalLeadershipAcademy #ChildWelfare #YouthVoice #Advocacy #SocialImpact