We believe it is imperative that youth voice is integrated within all youth and young adult practices and policies. We seek and uplift youth voice to understand and adapt to the unique needs of transition age youth. Our team has developed and overseen youth-led advisory boards in Illinois, Texas, and led national conversations with youth and young adults centering their experience and expertise.
- Center for Youth Mental Health Emerging Voices Advocacy Council, Austin, Texas: Developed young-adult advisory board to oversite Center for Youth Mental Health initiatives, and to drive the planning, development, and implementation of the Amplify Center. The board consists of 8 active members who are young people with personal or family lived mental health experiences. The board has provided guidance on naming Amplify Center, hiring Center staff, and program supports and materials. The board guides development of a community-responsive near age peer support effort for Amplify Center and members have the option to seek Peer Support Specialist certification. Members participate in Center research and present on their experiences, advisory efforts, and the needs for developmentally and culturally responsive mental health supports.
- Thresholds Youth & Young Adult Services (YAYAS) Peer Advisory Board, Chicago, IL: TIEMH developed and coordinated the YAYAS Peer Advisory Board of young adult participants across six clinical programs. The board consulted on program materials, practices and policies, proposed intervention research projects, and other areas of need. The YAYAS Peer Advisory board aims to support young leaders in creating change for youth and young adult services. The YAYAS Board is rooted in its passion for connecting young people for natural mentorship opportunities through service learning, educational, volunteer, & social activities.
