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Edition 5: April 2025
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The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors initiated the groundbreaking establishment of a Youth Commission, amplifying the voices of lived experience and catalyzing impactful change. Formed in 2020, the Youth Commission is led by youth who have directly navigated the systems we aim to enhance. We are not just any group. We are the voice of young people like you, shaping policies, practices, and services based on real-life stories from those who have experienced the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Beyond mere advisory roles, we are proactive leaders, actively dismantling barriers and driving positive transformation throughout Los Angeles County.
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Listening Session - Youth Event |
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On January 25, 2025, the LA County Youth Commission hosted the CSEC Empowerment Event, led by Co-Chair Brittianna Robinson in partnership with the Child Trafficking Leadership Team (CTLT). The event provided a platform for survivor advocates to share their experiences, connect with resources, and support youth. Guests enjoyed lunch, refreshments, and giveaways designed to uplift and support. Commissioners Martine Jones, Evelyn Rodriguez, Myriah Smiley and Luisa Flores Urrutia made contributions to the success of the event. |
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On March 22, 2025, the YC Listening Session at Pasadena City College offered a healing space for youth to share their experiences and find support. Commissioners Luisa Flores Urrutia and Amanda Hernandez led the event, facilitating discussions and workshops focused on mental health and community well-being. The session also featured an open mic, where talented youth showcased their skills – big shout-out to all the incredible performers! And a special shout-out to our very own Commissioner Evelyn Rodriguez for delivering a powerful spoken word performance. |
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On February 25, 2025, YC Commissioner Amanda Hernandez participated in a Cal Matters panel discussing how California supports opportunity youth – young people ages 16 to 24 who are unemployed or out of school. The panel examined the state’s investment in education and job training, highlighting successes, gaps, and needed improvements. Amanda shared insights on youth-led solutions and the importance of accessible resources. |
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On March 22, 2025, Commissioner Evelyn Rodriguez participated in the LA City Youth Development Department’s (YDD) Youth Summit at USC, which brought together young people to discuss key issues affecting youth, including education, mental health, and equity. She engaged in workshops and discussions focused on empowering youth and foster community leadership. |
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On February 27, 2025, YC Commissioner Christian Gudiel participated in JJ Systems-Wide Self-Assessment meeting, contributing to discussions enhancing the system’s effectiveness and support for justice-involved youth. This meeting was focused on evaluating and improving juvenile justice systems. It brought together key stakeholders to assess existing programs, identity areas for improvement and promote collaboration for better youth outcomes. |
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February 26, 2025, YC Co-Chair Joshua Elizondo participated in the council’s efforts to support youth education and well-being. The Education Coordinating Council (ECC) is a collaborative group in LA County focused on improved educational outcomes for youth, particularly those who are system-involved. The council brings together government agencies, school districts and community organizations to enhance access to quality education, reduce dropout rate and increase career readiness. |
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On January 6, 2025, YC Commissioners Sherrie Bradford and Christopher Espino contributed to the Talk to Me Tay podcast episode on LGBTQIA+ issues for system-involved TAY, focusing on the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth in foster care, probation, and other systems. The episode, led by youth voices, highlights the need for inclusive support, resources, and policy reforms to better support LGBTQIA+ youth in care. |
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