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high school students: the time is now. let’s get to work!

University of Arizona chapter members

Calling on mental health advocates to help establish a school culture of caring and support for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ students nationwide.

Over the last decade there has been a rise in mental health issues among youth and young adults. This rise has been even more pronounced among Black, Indigenous, and/or people of color (BIPOC) and LGBTQ+ young adults.

BIPOC youth are more likely to be impacted by the pandemic, police violence, and longstanding racial discrimination. Similarly, LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to experience discrimination, a lack of social support, and limited access to appropriate health care, all of which impact mental health. Experts predict that mental health challenges will continue to rise. Learn more here.

Right now, we can – and must – prioritize the wellbeing of all students, specifically BIPOC and LGBTQ+ students.

Active Minds is calling on high school mental health advocates to help establish a school culture of caring and support for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ students nationwide through our NEW Your Voice Is Your Power Ambassador program.

Active Minds at Kean University

Organize a Your Voice is Your Power coalition at your school.

Your school likely already has many advocates for BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ mental health. Rather than working separately to bring awareness to the unique mental health needs of BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ students, coalitions bring together groups and stakeholders with shared interests for collective action to create long-term change. When people come together with a common goal and shared strategy to work towards that goal, they are much more likely to make headway.

Schools can listen to the collective voices of the Your Voice is Your Power coalition to create lasting change for BIPOC and LBGTQ+ students.

Your Voice is Your Power (HS Edition)

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What does it mean to join the Active Minds Your Voice is Your Power High School Ambassador Program?

The Ambassador program will run from late March 2021 through the end of the school year. Ambassadors will be expected to participate in an orientation, occasional check-in phone calls, and professional development opportunities throughout the three-month project. The time commitment is approximately 2-3 hours per week. All ambassadors will be asked to share their progress at the end of the project. The primary goal of the ambassadors will be to make progress towards building a coalition on their campus that includes 3-5 fellow student leaders and at least one discussion with a faculty or administrator.

All ambassadors will receive:

  • $250 stipend
  • An Active Minds logo tee shirt
  • Exclusive access to a mental health workshop with a professional Active Minds speaker
  • Professional development and resume building experience
  • Connection with mentors and peers in the mental health field
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How do I set-up my coalition?

Ask at least one other student group or club to co-lead this coalition with you. Then, together, contact relevant school administrators, teachers, school staff members, student groups and clubs (e.g., student government, Pride, Gay-Straight Alliance, etc.), and student leaders and invite them to join you in meeting on a regular basis to talk about BIPOC and LGBTQ+ student mental health needs at your school.

 

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I’ve set-up my coalition. Now what?

We have tips for you! Check out this guide for policy ideas, sample meeting agendas, and the steps for advocating for change.

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How do I receive funding for this work?

Active Minds offered funds to up to 100 student advocates at 50 high schools (1-2 student advocates per school) to create their coalitions and receive close support from the National Office in Spring 2021.

To be eligible, students should attend high school and identify as BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ or have a commitment from a BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ student to co-lead the coalition. Applications are closed at this time.

SUPPORTING HIGH SCHOOL MENTAL HEALTH

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need support?

take advantage of the national active minds network!

 

wear it loud and proud!

Our new Your Voice is Your Power shirt is inspiring, eye-catching, and sure to be a conversation starter. Available in two color options.

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An emotionally healthy world is not possible without a just world.