North Shore Youth

Advisory Committee

Join the North Shore Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)

The North Shore YAC is a sub-committee that consists of local youth within the North Shore area who are passionate about health education, mental health, and reducing youth substance use. YAC Members provide their expertise and help advise what local youth are experiencing regarding youth substance use, mental health, etc. YAC Members help make decisions on how local coalitions and partners can better support local youth. By doing this, the YAC can help empower youth to make informed decisions about their health and wellness, improve community health outcomes, and also take matters into their own hands by creating and implementing programming with the help of diverse professionals in the area.

What are the benefits of joining the North Shore YAC?

  • Get involved in community change!

  • Leadership and advisory experience!

  • Guide our coalition’s efforts to improve your community!

  • Great to have on your Resume/College Application!

  • Gain skills that can help with future career path!

  • Plan events for National Prevention Week in May!

  • Connect to volunteer opportunities!

  • Collaborate with local stakeholders!

  • Learn more about mental health, substance use, public health, prevention, policies, and community engagement!

  • Make friends and connect with others from local schools!

  • Potential to attend local and national conferences!

What kinds of activities would the North Shore YAC do?

We want the YAC group to lead our coalition’s efforts! This means the activities are up to you and your peers! A YAC Advisor will help support the YAC and provide guidance, but we want to make sure the activities are meaningful and impactful to you and other local youth! Some examples of what other YAC groups do is:

  • Host community events

  • Create educational materials

  • Provide input and form community and local organization policy

  • Youth Engagement Activities

  • Communication Campaigns

  • Fundraising

  • Engage in Community Service

  • And many more!

Who can apply?

We are seeking local youth who are passionate about health, community service, supporting their community and peers and want to make a difference in the lives of residents of those who are in the North Shore of Illinois. Currently, we are seeking youth within the communities of Evanston, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Northbrook, Northfield, Wilmette, and Winnetka.

All youth from ages 12 to 18, from all backgrounds, are welcome and encouraged to apply! Those who have an interest or lived experience with health education, mental health, substance use prevention, harm reduction, and community change are encouraged to join us!

How do I apply?

Visit https://bit.ly/APPKEYYAC or click the button at the top of this page to apply! In order to better understand your skills and interests, please complete the application.

Do you have questions? Please email keycoalition@peerservices.org.

Be sure all information is accurate, including contact info and emergency contact. A permission form will need to be completed by a parent or guardian.