The inspiration behind this national program is that relationships between those who create public policies, and those affected by these policies, provides more realistic understandings of the issues and obstacles faced by foster kids who are aging out. Simultaneously, a better understanding of the difficulties and challenges involved with making policy decisions is revealed.  

During the Central Ohio project there will be several “Walk A Mile” matches underway. The Young Adult Community Development organization is coordinating this project. Some of the activities the pairs will experience together include weekly phone calls, visiting a food bank or employment office, and attending a public policy meeting. The policymaker will also be asked to live on the same estimated minimum wage budget as their foster youth partner.

“Walk A Mile” is a national program based in Seattle, Washington. The program has trained and provided technical assistance to organizations in 30 states on how to successfully coordinate projects. For more information, visit the national “Walk a Mile” website at www.walkamile.org or contact Natasha Grossman at 206-543-3027.

For more information about “Walk A Mile Central Ohio” visit Young Adult Community Development website at www.yacdinc.org or contact Gayle Loyola at 614-273-5819.