Summer camp is a cherished experience for many children. It’s a time to explore nature, build friendships, and develop new skills. For children and youth experiencing foster care, the benefits of summer camp extend far beyond fun and adventure. Camp provides a safe and supportive environment where youth can grow and create lasting memories. Additionally, summer camp plays a vital role in preventing burnout for foster parents while also offering financial assistance through foster-friendly camp scholarships.

If you're single and considering fostering, you might be wondering: Can I do this alone? The answer is a resounding yes!

We’re proud to announce that National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) is included in this year’s renowned ranking of America’s Best Employers 2026 by Forbes, a well-known global media company focusing on business, investing, technology, entrepreneurship, leadership, and lifestyle, and noted for its lists and rankings of individuals, companies, and other notable figures. 

At NYAP, we believe in every child and youth’s potential. Together, we can ensure that no teen is overlooked, and that brothers and sisters experiencing foster care can grow, heal, and thrive side by side.

For more than three decades, John and Shirley Malone have opened their hearts and home to children and youth in need of a safe, temporary place to live. After 30 years of fostering, the couple has decided it is finally time to retire. Their story is one of devotion, resilience, and the profound joy that comes from caring for others.

Domestic violence is prevalent in every community, and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. Physical violence is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior as part of a much larger, systematic pattern of dominance and control.

At NYAP, we know that the holidays can be a stressful time.  However, with preparation, patience, and compassion, we can reduce the stress while still creating lasting memories with children and youth in their care.

Our Care Management services are built on a strengths-based, family empowerment approach, helping families tap into their own resilience while connecting them with community resources that promote safety, stability, and growth.

The need for foster homes is urgent year-round, but it becomes even more critical during August and September. Youth need stability, compassion, and safety from caring individuals like you in their communities.

Every July, we pause to celebrate National Make a Difference to Children Month, a time to recognize the countless individuals who dedicate their lives to uplifting, educating, supporting, and protecting our youth. From classrooms to clinics, sports fields to counseling rooms, youth thrive because of the dedication and compassion of professionals like teachers, nurses, mental health counselors, social workers, child advocates, coaches, and mentors.

At the National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP), we believe children and youth belong with their families in the communities they call home. When safety concerns arise, and a temporary foster home is needed, our primary goal should be to help support successful reunification.

Every May, communities across our country celebrate National Foster Care Month as a time to acknowledge the essential role of foster care in supporting children and youth in need and honor America's foster families, who provide safe and nurturing temporary homes.

Language shapes perception. The words we use can empower or diminish others, reinforce stereotypes, or foster empathy. This is especially crucial in the foster care system, where youth are often labeled in ways that fail to honor their humanity and their potential for growth.

April is Child Abuse Awareness Month—a time to acknowledge the profound impact of childhood trauma and recognize the transformative power of kindness and compassion in the healing process.

Did you know that teachers and school personnel can become licensed foster parents for vulnerable children and youth? Because of your education, training, and experience with youth and families, you are uniquely positioned to…

U.S. District Judge Goodwin’s recent statement about West Virginia’s foster care system—calling out years of inaction, bureaucratic indifference, shocking neglect, and temporary fixes—is painfully accurate. There is plenty of blame to go around. Blame, however, leads nowhere. Instead, we must focus on real solutions, starting with…

The NYAP/Chance Program, a national program with roots in Jacksonville, has not only brought attention to the critical issues of human trafficking but has also provided much-needed resources and hope to those affected.

As a foster parent and now advocate in the social work field, I own my humanity, flaws and all. Learning through hard knocks tends to be a norm for anyone investing in children, whether they be a parent or professional.

National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) is proud to announce its selection as a recipient of the West Virginia First Foundation’s (WVFF) inaugural Opportunity Grant.

When it comes to child welfare, few issues are as critical—or as complex—as the decision to remove a child or youth from their home. At National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP), we believe keeping children and youth with their primary family members is essential to their long-term success and well-being.