Foster Forward Brings Works Wonders® to Capitol Hill
Today, Foster Forward Executive Director Lisa Guillette had the incredible opportunity to testify before the U.S. House Ways & Means Subcommittee on Work & Welfare at a hearing titled “Aging Out is Not a Plan: Reimagining Futures for Foster Youth.”
Lisa joined a panel of expert witnesses to highlight the urgent need for stronger supports for youth transitioning out of foster care. Her testimony focused on the importance of holistic, youth-centered approaches like our Works Wonders® program and the critical role of federal funding streams, like the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program, FYI housing vouchers, and Education and Training Vouchers, in creating real pathways to adulthood.
She also shared how Foster Forward’s housing programs are helping young people aging out of care secure stable, permanent homes and access the wraparound services they need to build a future. These programs are more than just support systems, they're launch pads for independence, opportunity, and long-term success.
“It was an honor to represent the young people we walk alongside every day,” Lisa said. “Too often, aging out of foster care means aging into instability. But with the right supports like housing, education, and mentorship, we can change that story and give youth the tools they need to thrive.”
Lisa was joined by Dr. Maggie Stevens, CEO of Foster Success, one of our Works Wonders replication partners, who testified about the importance of financial capability and postsecondary education supports for young people leaving care.
While in Washington, Lisa also had the chance to stop by the office of Congressman Gabe Amo to talk about Foster Forward’s work and the importance of continued federal investment in foster youth.
🎥 You can watch the full hearing replay here: https://www.youtube.com/live/NRDJrrVpDM8?si=K1bi4Aj2iXUu53sO
Make Your Voice Heard
The Committee is accepting public comments until Thursday, June 26. You can share your support for increased investments in foster youth by emailing a written statement to WMSubmission@mail.house.gov with the subject line:
“Hearing Submission: Aging Out is Not a Plan.”
Every voice matters, and yours helps ensure young people aging out of care are not left behind.
