About Us

The National Center for Youth Law believes in the incredible power, agency, and wisdom of youth. 

For more than 50 years, we have worked to center the voices and experiences of youth blocked from educational, health, and social well-being opportunities, particularly Black youth and youth of color, LGBTQ youth, disabled youth, immigrant youth, and youth in child welfare and juvenile justice systems.

We are transforming systems – classrooms, courts, the justice system, and health care spaces – to extend equity, dignity and care for children and youth.

Two young children in matching shirts hugging. smiles on their faces

Our Vision and Mission

Our vision is a world in which every child thrives and has a full and fair opportunity to achieve the future they envision for themselves. 

Our purpose is to amplify youth power, dismantle racism and other structural inequities, and build just policies, practices, and culture that center youth.

Our mission is to center youth voices and experiences through impact litigation, policy advocacy, collaboration and research that fundamentally transforms our nation's approach to education, health, immigration, foster care, and youth justice.

Retro photo seemingly from the 70s of children sitting on a bench

50 Years of Youth Justice

We have advanced justice for children and youth since 1971. Civil rights is our legacy. Centering youth is our promise.

Wide angle photo of large group of NCYL staff

Meet Our Staff

Our team are experienced lawyers, advocates, researchers, service providers, and collaborators who believe every child and youth should be supported with the care they need in their life journeys.

Financial Information

The National Center for Youth Law is a registered 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Learn more about our tax and audit information and our donor bill of rights.