2021 TAY Action Teams

In 2021, CAYEN partnered with four organizations to drive behavioral health systems change across four counties in California. Each group of youth advocated within their counties to create behavioral health programming and resources for youth in their communities, including conducting a Town Hall for local decision makers, as well as contributing to public policy advocacy at the state level. Each group identified their unique advocacy ask after coming together and sharing their lived experiences through their Multimedia Voice Projects, which use art as a tool for advocacy.

Hmong Cultural Center

The Hmong Cultural Center of Butte County in Butte County advocated to establish a TAY peer support program that centers Hmong youth, offering healing through the utilization of art and building intergenerational bridges between their community. Check out their website to learn more!

Two Feathers Native American Family Services

Two Feathers Native American Family Services in Humboldt County advocated to create a ‘Home Away From Home’ youth center for Native American youth. They want youth to have a safe space to connect with their culture, heal, and dispel the false narratives and stigma that mainstream culture perpetuates about their communities. Follow their Instagram @Twofeathers_nafs to learn more!

Slavic Assistance Center

The Slavic Assistance Center in Sacramento County advocated to provide resources for Slavic youth at schools in Sacramento County to create a better support system for youth experiencing behavioral health (mental health and substance use) challenges. They hope to reduce the stigma around behavioral health so that students feel safe seeking support from the peers and adults in their circles. Check out their website to learn more!

Orange County Multi-Ethnic Collaborative of Community Agencies (OC MECCA)

OC MECCA in Santa Ana advocated for Orange County to implement the Peer Support Specialist Certification Program and expand peer support services on high school and college campuses. As part of their work, they provided many youth and adult allies education around SB 803 (Beall) to build support for the rollout of this important legislation. Follow their Instagram @ocmecca to learn more!