Real Word Speakers Panel
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 via Zoom
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. PT
TOPIC: Adulthood After Foster Care
On April 22, you’re invited to an inside look at becoming an adult after foster care. Real Word speakers Anthony, Josh, Vanessa, and Emanuel, all former youth in foster care served by Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), will speak in depth about what it was like to transition from being a youth in foster care to a young adult in extended foster care (EFC) to an adult outside of care. Panelists will touch on moving into their own home, grocery shopping and cooking, finances, higher education, and more.
For this special edition of the panel, we invite those interested in becoming a CASA, current CASAs, and current and former foster youth (youth 16+ can specifically benefit).
Please note: this is a virtual panel
Real Word Speaker Anthony spent a third of his life in foster care and now advocates for other youth living in foster care. He was supported by his CASA, Daniel, for over a year, and because of his advocacy, Anthony found a safe, permanent home with his great-grandmother. Now, he is a recent graduate from UCLA who continues to speak up for children in foster care and spread awareness about the positive impact of CASA volunteers.
Click here to learn more about Anthony’s journey with CASA Daniel.
Real Word Speaker Josh had the unwavering support of his CASA, Tim, who has been in his life since 2016. While Josh navigated his way through the foster care system as a teenager and young adult, CASA Tim was by his side, providing crucial advocacy and caring support. Their relationship, built on trust and consistency, helped prepare Josh for the stability he now has, having graduated with his master’s degree and starting his own business.
Click here to learn more about Josh’s journey with CASA Tim.
Real Word Speaker Vanessa entered foster care when she was only 8 years old, growing up in the foster care system for 13 years. She was then introduced to her CASA, Laura, who advocated for her for nearly 10 years. CASA Laura tirelessly advocated for Vanessa’s education, helping her attend a college preparatory high school and being by her side to apply to colleges. Today, Vanessa is a recent graduate of UCLA who continues to advocate for supportive housing security for former youth in foster care and continues her higher education journey as she pursues law school.
Click here to learn more about Vanessa’s journey with CASA Laura.
Real Word Speaker Emanual entered foster care at the age of 15. This was when he met his CASA, Tim. CASA Tim was a champion of Emanual’s education, helping him graduate as valedictorian of his high school class and supporting him through challenging times when he began college. Today, Emanual is an independent young man who works full-time, and is supported by caring people who are always in his corner.
Click here to learn more about Emanual’s journey with CASA Tim.
Request a Presentation
Please help us educate the community about issues surrounding children who have experienced abuse and neglect. To schedule a Real Word presentation for your group, please contact Kristina Lisica at kristinal@speakupnow.org or call 858-598-2225.
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Voices for Children hosts Real Word panel events throughout the year. Sign up to receive email announcements about upcoming events.
