Children and Youth in Care Day is an annual opportunity to recognize the strength, resilience and potential of children and youth who are or have been involved with the child welfare system. At the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CAST), it is also a moment to listen, learn, and act in ways that centre young people’s voices and lived experiences in our work and decision-making.
Centre youth voice
This year, we are marking the day with a renewed focus on story and voice. In alignment with the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies’ (OACAS) 2026 theme, Rising in Strength and Story, we are creating space for young people to share their experiences in their own words in a way that supports learning across our Agency.
Today, we are hosting an in-person Children and Youth in Care Day event for our staff featuring a panel of our Youth Advisory Council. These young people have experience with our Agency and continue to play an active role in shaping how we listen to and learn from youth perspectives.
During the panel, Youth Advisory Council members will reflect on what is working well, where they see hope, and how we can continue to work together more effectively. They will also share their views on the supports needed beyond CAST, including community-based resources and services that help caregivers support children and youth at home.
Shared responsibility
The youth panel will be complemented by voices from partners and leaders who share a commitment to the well-being of children and youth. Guest speakers include:
- A panel of Youth Advisory Council members, moderated by Natasha Tucker, Director, Child and Youth Services, CAST
- Coura Niang, President of Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care
- David Mitchell, Senior Social Innovation Advisor for the Youth Association for Academics, Athletics, and Character Education (YAAACE)
- Geral Mak, CAST Board Member and Chair of CAST’s Quality and Outcomes Committee
Their participation reinforces the importance of shared responsibility and collaboration across systems, organizations and communities.
After the event, attendees will also have an opportunity to engage with a youth-focused marketplace featuring community organizations that support children and youth, as well as youth entrepreneurs showcasing and selling their work.
A message from CAST’s CEO
“Children and Youth in Care Day invites us not only to recognize young people, but to listen carefully, reflect and take action,” said Lisa Tomlinson, CEO of the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto.
“We encourage members of our community and those who support children and youth to ask questions, reflect on what young people are telling us and consider how their stories, strengths and insights can inform our collective work and commitment to their success, safety and well-being.”
