Madi's Advocate Program
Building Trust, Changing Lives
The Challenge
Each year in Tampa Bay, over 1,000 young adults age out of foster care, facing risks of homelessness, unemployment, and instability. Hillsborough County has Florida’s largest foster care population, with over 2,200 children annually. Statewide, 20% of Florida’s foster care population is in Hillsborough County, highlighting the urgent need for long-term support. Nationwide, more than 20,000 young adults age out of foster care each year without a stable support system. Madi’s Movement envisions a future where young adults break the cycle of dependency forever, equipping them with trust, stability, and lasting opportunities.
The Solution
At Madi’s Movement, we believe that consistent, caring relationships are the foundation for lasting change. That is why we created the Madi’S Advocate Program —a key pillar of our support model, designed to walk in step with our Academy pathways. Advocates are not case managers. They are navigators, mentors, and trusted guides—helping young adults make sense of life’s twists and turns as they transition from foster care into adulthood.
We offer two types of Advocate Roles:
Life Advocates
These mentors support the personal side of the journey—offering encouragement, teaching essential life skills, and showing up consistently. Life Advocates commit to walking alongside one young adult for two years as they navigate decisions around housing, health, relationships, and responsibility. They model stability, listen without judgment, and remind each young person: You matter, and I am here.
Industry Advocates
These professionals support the career side of the journey—sharing insights into their field, helping build networks, and opening doors to opportunity. Serving more like a “phone-a-friend,” Industry Advocates offer flexible, oncall support without a long-term time commitment. They provide real-world perspective, professional encouragement, and help each young person take the next step with confidence.
