By: Crystal Willis, Youth Engagement Program Manager

From panels and retreats to trips to Kentucky Kingdom, 2024 has been a memorable year for True Up! We made impactful strides, not just in advocacy, but in building a more intentional and supportive peer network. By weaving in structural changes, we’ve been able to cultivate deeper connections, foster collaboration, and strengthen our mission to empower former foster youth and alumni.

Accomplishments:

  • January- February:
    • Advocated for children during Children’s Advocacy Day and hosted a youth overnight retreat.
    • Met with legislators at the Capitol in Frankfort to amplify the voices of young people with lived experiences.
  • May- June:
    • Hosted our annual Charrette, this year focusing on mental health awareness.
    • Held a retreat for peer network members in Louisville and Northern Kentucky.
  • October:
    • Held Pumpkins and Policy in the Park, where we discussed priorities for the upcoming legislative session.
  • All Year Long:
    • Welcomed new members to our peer networks in Louisville and Northern Kentucky.
    • Partnered with new organizations to support former foster youth and alumni.
    • Hosted 12 peer network meetings, each featuring a unique topic, connection-building activity, and a shared meal.
    • Organized residential youth meetings at HOTI and Maryhurst.
  • Celebrations and Milestones:
    • Enjoyed the 4th of July at Kentucky Kingdom 
    • Concluded our Jewish Heritage Fund Housing work with an August partner convening to celebrate successes.
    • Secured another round of funding for TTC to uplift Black voices and raise awareness of the disproportionate representation of Black youth in the foster care system.
    • Collaborated with Face It and Family Scholar House for a positive parenting event.
    • Wrapped up the year with our True Up Christmas Party, celebrating everything we accomplished together.

2024 has been an incredible year of growth, connection, and impact. While we reflect on our many accomplishments, we’re already looking forward to 2025. With our new cohort of Peer Network members, we’re excited to reach even greater heights as we continue to inspire, advocate, and uplift the community we serve.  Here’s to an even brighter 2025! Happy New Year!

 

 

 

 

Get Involved: If you are an 18-26 year old with lived experience in foster care and are passionate about making a difference for others, then be part of True Up’s Peer Network! Learn more and apply here.