Youth Leadership Initiatives aim to build resiliency among youth leaders ages 12 to 18 (Grades 7 to 12).

Public Health staff will be available to consult, provide resources and support school staff through the Youth Leadership Initiative planning phase as needed. The school will implement the program and support youth leaders through the following process:

Step 1 – Recruit a group of youth in grade 7 to 12 (ages 12 to 18) who are interested in being peer leaders.

Step 2 – Establish the team of peer leaders to accomplish Steps 3 to 7.

Step 3 – Identify issues that are relevant to their school/community (e.g. mental health and well-being).

Step 4 – Prioritize and decide on a key topic or issues to address.

Step 5 – Develop an action plan to influence others in their school or community.

Step 6 – Implement the plan.

Step 7 – Evaluate and celebrate successes.

Schools can contact a School Liaison Public Health Nurse for more information.