NEW YORK — Five teens from Western New York joined 25 others across New York for the first in-person meeting of the NY Youth Mental Health Advisory Board.
The meeting took place in Troy, NY on Saturday and followed two virtual sessions from the summer.
Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “The Youth Mental Health Advisory Board will offer invaluable insight into the issues facing our youth and help us to build and strengthen supports for their mental well-being.”
Ten of the board members are from the five-boroughs of NYC, and there are five from every other region including Long Island, Hudson River, WNY, and Central NY.
The ages of the members range from 11 to 17 and represent 19 different counties. Over 350 people applied for the membership.
The board is part of Gov. Hochul's initiative that focuses on expanding mental health care and resources for young people and families.
Meetings will take place quarterly and include two in-person meetings. During these sessions, feedback that is given will be reported and compiled by Youth Power at Families Together.
“This advisory board gives us a chance to connect with young people across the state to hear their concerns and discuss the best ways to meet their needs,” OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said.
