YAC

Youth Advocates Community (YAC) provides youth from the ages of 16-24 with the opportunity to participate in a monthly community service project and social event. Youth of all abilities are welcome to participate. YAC gives youth who do and do not experience a disability the opportunity to build a diverse support network of peers, learn self-advocacy skills, have fun, and give back to their community. The idea is that the youth will work together as a team to decide their monthly service project and social activity.

If a youth is interested in participating in this program, we are asking that the youth be willing to commit to participating for at least 3 months. We are also asking that the youth provide their own transportation and money for small social events, such as bowling. If we participate in social events that are expensive, the group will participate in fundraising activities so that everyone can attend the activity.

We are also looking for adult volunteers to assist the Program Liaison at the monthly activities. If you or someone you know would be interested, please contact us.

If you have questions about YAC and/or have transportation concerns, please contact us.

YAC is under the Partners and Policymaking Grant, which is funded through the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority and implemented through UAA Center for Human Development. YAC is an introduction to self-advocacy and prepares those who wish to participate in the Partners and Policymaking classes. These classes provide persons who experience disabilities, their guardians and their care providers with the tools necessary to participate in advocacy on a personal and governmental level.