Princess speaks with a fellow advocate before meeting with lawmakers at the Wilson Building. 

Despite what we often see in the headlines about youth crime, I get to work with DC youth who are advocating together for systemic change. 

At 16, Princess entered the foster system after experiencing abuse and neglect. The options in front of her –reunification, adoption or guardianship – just didn’t work for her situation. She stayed in foster care, aging out at 21 without any formal support network. 

Today, she’s shaping a new law that will help others like her. 

For almost two years, I’ve worked with Princess and more than 20 other incredible former and current foster youth.

They have brought their experiences to the lawmaking table. Collectively, we’ve pored over the DC Code and laws in other states, revised dozens of drafts and had hundreds of hours of discussion and debate to craft a new law – one that will give youth a new way to exit foster care by honoring the relationships they already have. 

Your support makes this possible. Children’s Law Center represents nearly half of DC youth in foster care. Every day we see the amazing things children and young adults can accomplish when they are supported – and the devastating struggles that often follow when they are not. 

We can’t do it without you. With your gift, we can help turn their expertise into systemic change and ensure this new law is passed and implemented well.

For those who have already donated to our year-end campaign, I can’t thank you enough. If you are in a position to give, please consider making a gift today. 

Many thanks,


Tami Weerasingha-Cote 

Policy Director, Children's Law Center