Texas CASA supports SaySo.

I am pleased to support The Fostered's efforts to develop SaySo, an innovative concept designed to empower young people in foster care through greater knowledge, self-advocacy, and meaningful engagement. Young people are often expected to navigate complex child welfare, education, healthcare, and legal systems with limited access to clear, understandable information about their rights and available supports. The Fostered's vision recognizes that youth are not simply recipients of services, but essential partners in improving the systems that serve them.

What I find particularly compelling is The Fostered's commitment to building this work collaboratively. Rather than developing technology or programs in isolation, the organization is intentionally seeking guidance from youth with lived experience, practitioners, and community partners before implementation. Their proposed Rights Navigator and Complaint Navigator have the potential to become practical tools that help young people better understand their rights, identify appropriate resources, and advocate for themselves in ways that complement the important work already being done by CASA volunteers, attorneys, caseworkers, caregivers, and other professionals.

While The Fostered remains in the early stages of development, I believe its commitment to collaboration, evidence-informed design, and authentic youth partnership makes it a promising initiative worthy of support. I encourage those interested in strengthening outcomes for children and youth in foster care to learn more about this work and consider opportunities to help The Fostered responsibly develop these ideas into practical resources that benefit young people across Texas.