About the New York City Council Shadow Day Experience:
Shadow Day was designed as an opportunity for young adults with experience in the foster care system to spend time shadowing a member of the New York City Council and their staff to gain a better understanding of how NYC is governed. As NYC residents, Council Members are here to represent your interests as it is their responsibility to improve the functioning of the city for their constituents. As a participant, you will have the opportunity to share your personal experiences and potentially impact policy and regulations within the foster care system.
This year’s programming will include an in-person training and 2 virtual days of programming with New York City Council members and staffers. Please note all participants are expected to attend these three dates of programming.
Important Dates
Training @ Children’s Aid Headquarters: 117 West 124th Street, New York, NY 10035
- May 23, 2022 4:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Shadow Day Sessions via Zoom
- May 25, 2022 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
- May 26, 2022 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
After submitting your application, you will be invited for a brief interview by phone. All participants will be expected to attend one training session and two days of Shadow Day programming.
Advocacy & Communications Strategies Training
This training will equip you with a background on advocacy and effective messaging. You will also be provided with a brief overview of the city council and other information to prepare you for Shadow Day Programming.
This training will be held on Monday May 23, 2022 from 4:00 pm - 6:30 pm. Please note that this training is mandatory for all Shadow Day Participants.
Location: Children’s Aid Headquarters @ 117 West 124th Street, New York, NY 10035
Individuals must meet the following criteria to be eligible to participate:
- 16 –24 years old
- A resident of NYC
- Currently or formerly in a foster care placement (foster care, group home, kinship home, etc.)
- Willingness to share your personal story or speak publicly about the foster care system
- Willingness to participate in future advocacy efforts regarding the foster care system and advocate on behalf of youth in care or alumni
- Experience with housing process (NYCHA, Section 8, independent living, etc.) a plus
Registration deadline is May 9, 2022 by 6pm. Forms received after the deadline will be considered for placements as space permits.
For more information please contact FYSA@childrensiaidnyc.org