John Paul Horn is a former foster youth who survived ten years in the foster care system. Placed in care in 1994, he has lived in seven foster homes and eight group homes, and spent time as a runaway and homeless youth. During his time in care, John was a member of California Youth Connection and served as the Kern County Chapter President. In February of 2004, he spoke at a press conference which introduced a new bill into the California State Legislation, AB 1858, authored Assemblyman Darrell Steinberg. The bill addressed unique issues troubling foster youth attending non-profit group home schools, specifically issues regarding curriculum and standards. In April of 2004, John appeared on an episode of The Dr. Phil Show entitled “Kids Ask Dr. Phil and Robin”, where he shared the story of his life and experiences as a foster youth. In addition to his public speaking experience for foster youth advocacy, he has served on two committees: Champions for Kern, the county-wide committee designed to help address the concerns of improving the child welfare system as mandated by state law, AB 636; and he currently serves on the Bakersfield College Independent Living Program Advisory Committee, a committee designed to oversee the curriculum of the local Independent Living Skills Program. During his senior year of high school, John participated in Forensics speech and debate, and competed at the state level in the event of impromptu. He is currently a student at California State University-Bakersfield, double majoring in Theatre Arts and Liberal Studies, where he performs in theatrical productions. His most recent performances have been as The Messenger in A Doll’s House and James Henry Trotter in James and the Giant Peach. He is also actively involved in Kappa Sigma Fraternity, where he acts as the Grand Scribe (Vice President of Public Relations and Communications.) He looks forward to the new experiences this chapter in his life will bring, and is eager to see where the rest will lead. He thanks the Rowell Foster Children’s Positive Plan for their continued support.