Advocacy and Partnerships
Rationale
To create lasting change for vulnerable children, direct service provision must be complemented by advocacy and systems change. Youthful Faces’ mission is community-centered, and part of that is being a voice for OVC in broader forums – influencing policy, raising awareness, and mobilizing resources beyond our own organization. The board’s strategic feedback highlighted the need for advocacy with local government and partnership-building for sustainability. Indeed, international frameworks call for “increasing awareness and advocacy regarding OVC issues” and engaging wider stakeholders. By advocating, Youthful Faces can help ensure that no child is left behind not just through our programs, but through improved policies and community support networks.
Strategic Objectives
Amplify the cause of orphaned and vulnerable children through advocacy and strategic partnerships. Over 2026–2028, Youthful Faces will actively engage in advocacy initiatives at local and national levels – aiming to influence at least one policy or public program in favor of OVC – and will forge collaborative partnerships with other organizations to expand our impact. We will position Youthful Faces as a thought leader on holistic OVC care in Kenya, sharing our model and success stories to inspire broader change.
Measurable Targets (2026 - 2028)
Local Advocacy
Participate in county-level child welfare forums or coalitions in at least 3 of our operating counties by 2027. For example, join a County Orphans and Vulnerable Children Committee or child protection stakeholder meetings. Contribute data and stories from our work to inform county action plans. By 2028, we aim to see increased government support (e.g. county bursaries, food aid, or health waivers) for children in our communities as a result of our advocacy.
National Awareness Campaigns
Launch at least one annual advocacy campaign or event. In 2026, host a “Youthful Faces Summit” (or virtual webinar) inviting policymakers, donors, and community members to discuss challenges facing OVC and solutions (education, healthcare, etc.). In 2027, run a digital campaign (e.g. a social media initiative around Day of the African Child) to share messages like the importance of psychosocial support and WASH, reaching a wider audience. Track engagement metrics (attendees, social media reach) and aim for year-on-year growth (e.g. a 50% increase in campaign reach by 2028).
Policy Influence
By 2028, contribute to or co-author one policy brief or recommendation paper on OVC care best practices, perhaps in collaboration with a larger NGO network or academic partner. Success would be government adoption of some recommendations or citing our work. For instance, if Kenya’s Department of Children’s Services is updating OVC guidelines, we provide input highlighting holistic care (education, psychosocial, housing).
Partnerships
Form at least 5 significant partnerships by 2028. These can include: NGO Partners, Corporate or Foundation Partners and Networks.
This priority aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, recognizing that multi-stakeholder collaboration is crucial. It also resonates with African Union Agenda 2063’s call for citizen inclusion and unity in development efforts. By raising our voice, we aim to multiply impact: encouraging policy “that protects the most vulnerable children” and mobilizing communities to take ownership of OVC care[83]. For Youthful Faces, success in advocacy means that over time, communities and governments are better equipped and more willing to support their orphaned and vulnerable children – reflecting our vision of empowered communities sustaining themselves.