State needs to use caution with Tampa Bay foster care | Editorial
Don’t let the debate over child services, resources and governance fall victim to a rush job. The Florida Department of Children and Families is expected
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.
Don’t let the debate over child services, resources and governance fall victim to a rush job. The Florida Department of Children and Families is expected
Three agencies on Wednesday made presentations to state officials hoping to win the $80 million foster care contract for Pinellas and Pasco counties. None are
This training is geared to attorneys who have or may be asked to finalize an adoption from foster care. It will also be useful for others in the system who want to know what should be happening in adoption finalizations. Topics include…
DCF and CBC lead agencies have a fiduciary duty to protect the funds of children in state care and to ensure that they are used for their short and long term needs…
The state has more than 6,000 children in foster care 12+ HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — As the debate rages on over how to protect children
This training is geared to attorneys who have or may be asked to finalize an adoption from foster care. It will also be useful for others in the system who want to know what should be happening in adoption finalizations. Topics include…
Florida’s 2021 Legislative Session resulted in the passage of two bills that will have a significant impact on Florida’s child welfare system. A handful of other bills also…
A cache of documents pried loose after USA TODAY’s investigation in October into Florida’s child welfare system reveals allegations of foster care abuse are more widespread
Florida is changing its array of placements for foster children to meet the requirements of the federal Family First Act. Beginning in October 2021 the federal government will stop paying for traditional group care…
A 90-minute tour of several websites that provide a wealth of information you can use when working with children and families involved in the child welfare system…
For young people in foster care, the uncharted times of coronavirus are even more unsettling. Since the start of pandemic, odds are you’ve received at least
Six years ago, Florida lawmakers embraced a tough new approach to stop parents from abusing their children. They approved millions of dollars to hire more
Florida’s 2020 Legislative Session resulted in the passage of several bills that affect Florida’s child welfare system. High profile bills like Jordan’s Law and the DCF Accountability Act made the news. Others that…
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A series of bills about the foster care system is moving through the Florida Legislature. Rebekka Behr is focused on the Foster Youth Bill of Rights, which
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.