We believe that all children have the right to food, clothing, housing, education, medical care, property and personal privacy.
Florida’s laws, policies and practices respect, prioritize and protect children and youth impacted by the child welfare, juvenile justice, and disability systems.
Manny Oliver, 24, was given a 2004 KIA Spectra Manny Oliver, 24, is all smiles as he looks over is new car Saturday. Oliver… (Mark
July 20, 2011 No need to empanel a grand jury to investigate the last few hours of Eric Perez, who was left to die in
July 19, 2011 TAMPA, Fla. — A former New York foster child swindled out of more than $400,000 in insurance money by his foster parents
June 30, 2011|By Kate Santich, Orlando Sentinel A new state law requiring all welfare applicants to be drug-tested goes into effect today — even as
June 15, 2011 Welfare applicants who fail a new mandatory drug test might not only lose their claim to government assistance — they may also
June 13, 2011 Talenfeld helped involve him in a group called Florida Youth SHINE, which the lawyer had played a role in launching. Composed of
5-17-11 Naples Daily News Letter May 17, 2011 Naples Daily News: Keeping Kids Safe, by Christina Spudeas
May 17, 2011 Fort Myer’s News Press: Keeping Kids Safe, by Christina Spudeas
May 1, 2011 Florida’s foster kids and others are the targets of harmful legislation being debated in Tallahassee. Senate Bill 1972 — the Medicaid reform
April 29, 2011 Only two-percent of Florida foster kids graduate from college. Legislation being discussed in Tallahassee could lower the success rate even more. Right
FYS Communications & Marketing Chair
(Miami)
Hi everyone!
My name is Mel and I’m 23. In the community support space, I’m known for strong communication, crisis navigation, and the ability to build trust with participants from diverse backgrounds. I consistently hold close partnerships with care coordinators, advocates, and local organizations to provide comprehensive and high-quality support.
I specialize in creating structured tools such as educational guides, clear documentation, and life-skills resources that help youth better understand their needs, boundaries, and options.
Alongside my advocacy work, I have become an accomplished creative whose work spans digital design, visual content development, and storytelling. I design flyers, presentations, and multimedia pieces that bring clarity, culture, and visual impact to youth programming, community initiatives, and local events. My creative eye allows me to transform information into accessible and engaging visuals that resonate authentically with the communities I serve.
I am proud to be a member of the 2025-26 Statewide Board as and lend my skills to Florida Youth SHINE in support of my peers and bringing changed for youth with homeless and foster care experience.
