Community Engagement

Community Engagement Program: "Mind Matters: Youth Mental Health Initiative"

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🎯 Program Goals

 

• Increase awareness and reduce stigma around mental health.

 

• Educate youth on emotional wellness and coping strategies.

 

• Build partnerships with schools and local leaders.

 

• Empower youth to become mental health advocates.

 

🏫 School Partnerships

 

• Program: "Mental Health in the Classroom"

 

• What: Partner with local schools to offer age-appropriate mental health workshops, support

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• groups, and parent education sessions.

 

• How: Monthly workshops led by licensed counselors.

 

• Curriculum support for teachers on social-emotional learning.

 

• On-site or virtual “Wellness Corners” where students can access resources.

 

• Partners to Seek:

 

• School districts, guidance counselors, local universities (for psychology interns), and PTA groups. Youth Ambassador Program

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• Program: "Youth Voices for Wellness" 

• What: A peer-leading program where teens are trained as ambassadors to promote mental health in schools and online.

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• How: Recruit 2–3 youth leaders per school.

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• Monthly training on mental health first aid, leadership, public speaking, and peer support.

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• Ambassadors lead campaigns, organize support circles, or speak at school assemblies.

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• Outcomes: Builds leadership skills and peer-to-peer influence.

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• Promotes youth-driven change.

 

🎉 Community Events

 

Event: "Mental Health & Wellness Day"

 

• What: A fun, educational, and inclusive day for teens and families to focus on emotional well-being.

 

• Features:

 

• Workshops on stress, anxiety, and social media wellness.

 

• Meditation, art therapy, music, and dance.

 

• Resource booths with info from local orgs, therapists, and clinics.

 

• Open mic for youth testimonials and performances.

 

• Potential Partners:

 

• Local parks, hospitals, cultural centers, wellness coaches, musicians/artists, youth groups.

 

• Bonus: Offer free transportation for underserved youth.