The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a group of young people striving to vocalize the needs and strengths of youth by serving as ambassadors on behalf of a public health program. The mission of YAB is to empower and express ideas of youth, and to bridge the gap between the state and the youth of their communities.

The roles of a YAB member include participating in discussions with public professionals in the field about program improvement/implementation and how to actively engage youth by using Positive Youth Development. The YAB will be a resource for feedback on ideas, sharing their thoughts on current events, and making sure the program staff is effectively communicating information to youth.

Youth must have a voice in the conversations and decision making that affects them – nothing about them without them! Their energy and ideas are invaluable assets. The Department of Health and it’s regional partners offer several opportunities for young people to get involved, form friendships and leadership skills, and make a difference in their communities.