The Youth Advocacy Foundation (YAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit within the juvenile division of the state public defender agency, the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS). The Youth Advocacy Foundation was established in 2001 with the mission of protecting and advancing the legal and human rights of children to promote their healthy development through active partnerships with local communities.  YAF supports initiatives and positions not currently funded by the state to ensure that every child has access to zealous legal representation, essential and vibrant community-based services, and a quality education.