At National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP), we believe every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. Our organization is built on a foundation of inclusion, striving to create an environment where individuals can express themselves without fear and build authentic, supportive relationships within their communities.

In recognition of our efforts, NYAP was first honored in 2023 by the Human Rights Campaign’s All Children – All Families Program (HRC-ACAF) for our LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and practices. Most recently, in 2024, we proudly achieved the next level of recognition, the Solid Foundation for Inclusion tier, an essential benchmark in our journey toward a fully affirming and equitable organization.

HRC-ACAF promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion across the country. Through its tiered framework, it guides organizations in implementing best practices related to culturally competent care, employee training, and inclusive policies and procedures that support youth and families who belong to the LGBTQ+ community. Achieving recognition through this program is more than a badge of honor; it reflects our ongoing commitment to equitable care.

Our participation in HRC-ACAF is a cross-agency effort led by passionate employees who understand the vital role inclusion plays in the lives of everyone who works with or is served by our organization. Together, we submitted numerous documents highlighting our inclusive practices, including employee training and how we create welcoming environments to foster parent support, youth-centered strategies, organizational sustainability, and innovation in leadership.

Our commitment to this work is deeply rooted in the realities of the youth we serve. Youth who identify as LGBTQ+ are disproportionately overrepresented in the foster care system, often as a result of hostility towards their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Once in care, LGBTQ+ youth frequently face additional barriers, including a lack of affirming placements and supportive services. NYAP is dedicated to changing this reality by strengthening our policies, deepening our cultural competency, and recruiting foster families who are equipped and eager to provide welcoming, temporary homes for LGBTQ+ youth.

If you’re ready to foster or considering it for the future, please call 1-877-NYAP-CAN, email us at becomeafosterparent@nyap.org, or visit our website at nyap.org/fostercare.

About National Youth Advocate Program: Since 1978, National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) has provided culturally informed community-held services to children and youth with specialized behavioral, developmental, emotional, and physical needs. NYAP is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) entity that supports child, youth, and family service organizations. It has a strong reputation for delivering person-centered, strengths-based, innovative services and treatment. Visit www.nyap.org to learn more.