Short Film Productions

Real Stories on the Big Screen

🎥 4 projects (2021–2025), serving 50 youth.
Funded by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation in partnership with New Yorkers For Children.

Foster Care Unplugged’s short film program turns lived experiences into cinematic storytelling. Over 12 weeks, youth collaborate with professional writers, directors, and coaches to transform their journeys into powerful short films that advocate for change, build confidence, and foster healing.

What’s Part of the Service:

 
• Trauma-informed script development workshops.
 
• Acting training, on-set production skills, and storytelling development.
 
• Hands-on experience with professional cinematographers, directors, and editors.
 
• Vocational training in filmmaking, production, and creative arts.
 
• Portfolio and resume development for youth pursuing future opportunities.

Public Showcases and Media Reach:
Short films produced through this program have been screened at national child welfare   conferences, youth empowerment summits, and private events hosted by child welfare stakeholders.
More than 5000 viewers have experienced these youth-led stories, including NYC Mayor’s Office representatives, child welfare leaders, birth parents, foster parents, youth advocates, and prominent funders.
Our projects have also been featured across news stations, podcasts, activist vlogs, and major news publications — amplifying youth voices across the country.

Why You Should Refer a Youth:
Foster Care Unplugged’s short film projects empower youth to heal through storytelling, advocate for change, and build essential vocational and leadership skills.
By transforming their lived experiences into films, youth not only share their voices but also create new opportunities for their futures.