City of Rochester
News Release
(Monday, May 13, 2024) – The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council today launched a Youth Mental Health Survey to gain insight that will help them better advocate for the mental health needs of Rochester youth. They also encouraged youth to participate in the City’s many available youth services.
“We are asking our peers to take this survey and be part of the Youth Mental Health Initiative so we can make sure Rochester’s youth play a role in improving their own mental health,” said YVOV Spokesperson Sarah Adams. “Rochester’s youth are talented, we are ambitious, and we can do whatever we set our minds to. I am calling on all city youth to rise to the occasion and recognize the importance of taking care of their mental health.”
“This topic is arguably one of the most important conversations our community can have, and I’m thankful for the young people of YVOV who are taking the lead to get that conversation started,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “Thanks to the impactful work of YVOV, our youth have yet another beacon of hope, which is helping to shape a brighter future for our community."
In partnership with The Wilson Foundation, the YVOV team has developed a program to educate and empower youth about mental health awareness. Gathering community input through the newly formed Youth Mental Health Board, YVOV aims to understand Rochester's youth mental health needs, guiding the development of peer-to-peer mentorship focusing on mental health.
The survey is available to youth and adults who work with youth, such as teachers and R-Center staff. Responses will be categorized by age to determine the needs of youth at different stages of their life.
Mayor Evans also encouraged city youth and their parents to consider taking advantage of the City’s many youth programs this summer.
“The reality for many city students is that the summer break carries an increased risk of physical inactivity, learning loss, and potential exposure to bad influences,” he said. “Our summer programming creates safe havens where children can keep their bodies moving and their minds sharp while fully experiencing the joy of summer.”
YVOV is dedicated to connecting, training, and advising Rochester’s youth leaders, city governance, adult advisors, and community stakeholders. The goal is to establish a diverse membership of youth who can provide expertise in various fields to inform and impact policies related to youth issues. Youth Voice, One Vision comprises young community representatives advocating for Rochester's youth concerns, collaborating to foster positive change through inclusive events and initiatives.
To learn more, and take the survey, visit the Youth Voice, One Vision webpage at www.CityofRochester.gov/YVOV/.
To learn about other City youth programs available to young people, visit www.CityofRochester.gov/RCentral/.
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News Media: For more information, contact Communications Director Barbara Pierce at Barbara.Pierce@cityofrochester.gov.