Empowering Teens through Service Learning and Mental Health Support
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
East Stroudsburg, PA — October 3, 2024— Youth Infusion, a non-profit dedicated to fostering youth empowerment and community engagement, proudly announces the launch of its Youth Leadership Advisory Board (YLAB) Program. This innovative program provides high school students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, gain career readiness experience, and address critical mental health issues through meaningful community service.
The YLAB Program is designed for students aged 15-18 and focuses on connecting youth to their communities through service-learning projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program emphasizes the development of 21st-century skills, including collaboration, critical thinking, career development and digital literacy. Additionally, financial literacy workshops are included to help students build a foundation for future financial independence. Participants are paired with professional Task Force Mentors, offering them hands-on learning opportunities, such as job shadowing, resume-building workshops, and career exploration fairs. The program also highlights mental health awareness by offering teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) training, ensuring students are equipped with the tools to manage their own mental health while supporting their peers.
Youth Infusion is also seeking Adult Task Force Mentors to guide and inspire participants. These mentors will play a vital role in supporting the students' personal and professional development by providing real-world insights, coaching, and opportunities to expand their networks.
Participants in the YLAB Program will also have unique opportunities to visit key political and global institutions, including the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., the state Capitol in Harrisburg, and the United Nations headquarters in New York City. These visits will provide students with an in-depth understanding of government, diplomacy, and global leadership, further enhancing their civic engagement.
“Our goal with the Youth Leadership Advisory Board Program is to give young people a platform where they can develop their voices, pursue their passions, and make a meaningful impact in their communities,” said Elika Almeida, Co-founder and Executive Director of Youth Infusion. “We recognize the increasing struggles many teens face with mental health, especially after the pandemic. This program is designed to address these issues while empowering students through service learning, leadership development, and mentorship.”
The program will culminate in the highly anticipated NEPA Youth Lead Conference at Kalahari Resorts, from May 6-8, 2025. At the conference, students will have the chance to present their service learning projects, participate in leadership workshops, and connect with businesses for potential internships and volunteer opportunities.
Youth Infusion is currently accepting applications from students for the YLAB Program until October 15, 2024. High school guidance counselors and teachers are encouraged to recommend students. Parents are encouraged to share the YLAB information with their children. Selected students will benefit from scholarship opportunities, networking with professionals, and direct participation in service projects tied to real-world challenges.
About Youth Infusion
Founded in 2009, Youth Infusion is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating pathways for youth to lead in their communities. The organization promotes service learning, youth voice, and mental health support, offering programs that empower young people to make a positive impact in their communities. Youth Infusion facilitates collaboration with community partners, including educational institutions, businesses, government agencies, and other non-profit organizations to ensure that youth participation and action are valued.
For more information or to apply to the Youth Leadership Advisory Board Program, visit https://youthinfusioninc.com/ylab-youth-leadership or contact Youth Infusion at youthinfusion2020@gmail.com
Press Contact:
Elika Almeida
570-994-4119
Youthinfusion2020@gmail.com
www.youthinfusioninc.com
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Youth Infusion
PO Box 853
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301