Florida Youth Shine Young Adults Advocate at the Capitol

April 22, 2026

Earlier this year, young adults from the Treasure Coast Chapter of Florida Youth Shine traveled to Tallahassee to advocate for legislative changes that support youth and young adults in the dependency system. Accompanied by mentors Litty Summers and Margie M. Dotson, the group spent a week meeting with State Senators and Representatives at the Capitol.

Our young adults represented the Treasure Coast with professionalism and confidence—impressing legislators, networking with policymakers, and advocating for bills focused on youth empowerment, financial independence, education, and workforce opportunities. They even braved the cold weather and experienced snow flurries during the trip!

Key priorities included legislation to increase youth engagement and allowances in foster care, expand postsecondary educational support and flexibility, and grow workforce education and internship opportunities statewide. Some youth were even encouraged to testify before the Senate, highlighting the powerful impact of their voices.

We are incredibly proud of these young leaders for their dedication, advocacy, and commitment to improving the system for current and future youth in care.