Introduction

Join us in advocating for the Foster-to-College Scholarship Act, a bipartisan initiative designed to help Ohio’s foster youth afford college or career training. By taking a few simple steps—like calling legislators or sharing social media posts—you can help make a difference for teens who grew up in foster care.

Call to Action: Sign Up for Our Monday Zoom Calls

Weekly Advocacy Zoom Calls during may’s bduget hearings

When?

Every Monday night during budget hearings (late April through early June)

Where?

Zoom (link provided via email upon sign-up here)

On these calls, you’ll:

  • Hear directly from foster youth alumni and/or other advocates about why this legislation matters.

  • Receive a brief orientation on the basics of the bill, template emails, phone scripts, etc. Please see some templates below, and please consider exploring the stories and data on our website if you would like to personalize your messages.

  • Take action (while muted on Zoom) by leaving voice mails or emailing our state’s decision makers in real time.

Volunteer Phone Script

Purpose: Call your State Senator or Representative to voice support for House Bill 25 / Senate Bill 182.

Script:
“Hi! My name is [Your Name], and I’m a volunteer with [_____] and/or a constituent from Ohio. I’m calling to ask [Representative/Senator _____] to support House Bill 25 / Senate Bill 182, the Foster-to-College Scholarship Act. This bipartisan bill will help Ohio’s foster youth afford college or career training by covering costs not met by financial aid.

I’ve learned how foster youth often lack the family support or finances to pursue higher education and that Ohio ranks among the bottom 10% nationally for foster youth outcomes. This bill can change that.

I encourage you to check out our website: (insert website link here)] to learn more about the bill, the data behind it, and the stories of Ohio foster youth who will benefit.

Thank you so much for your time and for all you do. I hope we can count on [Representative/Senator _____] to vote ‘yes’ on this important bill!”

Volunteer Email Template

Subject

Please Support the Foster-to-College Scholarship Act

Body

Dear Senator/Representative _____,

I’m writing to express my support for the Foster-to-College Scholarship Act. As someone who values both fiscal responsibility and the well-being of young Ohioans, I see this bill as a win-win.

  • Budget Impact: By investing in foster youth now, we reduce future costs related to homelessness, unemployment, and other social services.

  • Moral Responsibility: Foster youth often age out of care with minimal support. The statistics are sobering, and you can read about them here:

  • Workforce Benefits: A more educated population benefits local businesses and strengthens Ohio’s economy.

Thank you for considering this important legislation. I hope you’ll champion the Foster-to-College Scholarship Act during this session.

If you’d like more information or success stories, please see our website: [_____]

Sincerely,
[Your Name, City, and Contact Info]

Key Messages & Talking Points

Can’t make it to our Monday calls? No problem!

Use these three core themes in every call, email, or social post and join our advocacy effort on your own time.

  1. Budget Argument

    • Key Idea: Scholarships for foster youth reduce future costs linked to homelessness, incarceration, and public assistance.

    • Sample Phrase: “When we support foster youth with scholarships, we help them contribute to the economy rather than fall through the cracks.”

    2. Moral Imperative

    • Key Idea: We have a responsibility to help vulnerable youth gain education and stability.

    • Sample Phrase: “These young people have overcome tremendous challenges. Offering them a path to college is simply the right thing to do.”

    3. Workforce Benefits

    • Key Idea: Educated foster youth become productive, engaged members of our communities.

    • Sample Phrase: “A strong workforce starts with an educated population and no one should be left behind.”

Additional Tips:

  • Reference personal stories from past hearings (linked here).

  • Consult legislative research and senator profiles to tailor your message to each senator’s priorities (linked here).