Youth Initiative Leadership Program

Parent Advocacy and Support Services (PASS), a program of the Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas (MHASCK), in collaboration with the Kansas Parent support Network is conducting a Youth Leadership Initiative for youth (teens) diagnosed with a severe emotional disturbance (SED) and receiving community-based mental health services. The proposed project will include four (4) pilot projects, located at various sites across the state, with Parent Support staff at those locations coordinating parent involvement.

• The project will engage 150 youth (age 12-18) in peer-to-peer activities designed to develop communication, community service, problem-solving, and peer-to-peer relationships.
• Semi-monthly meetings are conducted, with guidance and support provided by parents. These sessions focus on identifying qualities of leadership, developing a personal plan for developing leadership qualities, and participating in activities directed toward reaching personal goals.
• As a means of achieving leadership skills, youth participants will discuss such options as community service, giving testimony and presentations, providing mentoring to a peer, team projects, and advocacy activities.

On June 15 and 16, 2007, a statewide conference will be held with youth and family representation requested from each of the Kansas Community Mental health Centers by way of the Parent Support Specialists. Leadership development program activities, along with demonstrations (posters) of individual leadership initiatives will be presented.

Call 316-685-1821 ext. 513 or ext. 231