YNN is Flourishing This Fall!
This fall, we’re thrilled to share exciting updates and opportunities! From impactful discussions at the Mental Health Matters Summit to our upcoming webinar, YNN is committed to empowering young people with vital resources. PLUS, our latest podcast episode highlights inspiring stories from the foster care community.
Mindful Moments
From Mental Health Awareness Month
NAMI Ohio provided Mental Health Training Support to YNN Staff
On Oct. 3, Mindy Garverick with NAMI Ohio trained Youth Navigator Network staff on mental health supports available to young people in Ohio. YNN learned about several resources, including information on how NAMI can support YNN in identifying and connecting with mental health wellness resources for young people. YNN staff also learned about YouthMOVE Ohio, an organization led by young people that focuses on improving services and systems to promote the inclusion of young peoples’ voices, their mental wellness, having positive supports, and experiencing healthy transitions. Mindy also shared information on how YouthMOVE Ohio offers support for young people to become a certified Youth Peer Support through their partnership with Ohio Mental Health and Addiction Services.
Mental Health Summit
At a recent Mental Health Summit hosted by the City Club of Cleveland, YNN had the opportunity to engage with students, educators, and community members to support youth mental health. As part of the Community Partner Showcase, YNN shared insights about its mission and the Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC), while connecting with local resources focused on helping young people. With around 200 students in attendance, the summit highlighted important tools and supports available to address youth mental health needs in the community.
YNN Program Coach, Marissa Tuma, prepares to share YNN’s mission and resources with Summit attendees.
Summit attendees engage in meaningful conversations about supporting mental health in young populations.
Program Updates
What's New With YNN?
Care to Conquer - Episode 2
The second episode of our podcast, Care to Conquer, is live! If you missed Episode One, catch up by following this link!
In this second episode, the Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC) engages in a conversation with Lisa Dickson, who once navigated the foster care system herself. She opens up about her remarkable path of resilience and transformation into an advocate for fellow foster youth and alumni. Overcoming significant obstacles, including homelessness and abuse, Lisa has dedicated herself to making a difference. She plays a pivotal role in supporting the OHIO Youth Advisory Board and ACTION Ohio, initiatives aimed at amplifying the voices of young people and offering them essential support.
Listen to Episode Two now, and make sure you’re subscribed so you never miss a new episode! You’ll hear valuable perspectives on building a rewarding career in advocacy, the critical role of seeking support, and the significance of remaining centered in the present. By focusing on these aspects, we aim to inspire positive change and empower individuals within the foster care community.
Leadership & Life Skills Summit
The OHIO YAB (Youth Advisory Board), in partnership with the Ohio Children’s Alliance, brought together current and former foster youth for a Leadership and Life Skills Summit. YNN was honored to attend this impactful event, which was designed to empower youth aged 14-24.
YNN shares information and literature about YNN with attendees of the Leadership & Life Skills Summit.
Supported by the Ohio Children’s Alliance, The Ohio Department of Children and Youth, and the Dave Thomas Foundation, this event focused on providing valuable resources and skills to enhance the lives of attendees. The summit featured a series of workshops led primarily by former foster youth, emphasizing youth leadership in content development. Participants engaged in discussions on essential topics such as job interviewing, financial literacy, and healthy relationships, while also having the opportunity to network with resource providers. Additionally, a special "Suits for Success" area allowed youth to receive professional attire for job interviews. The event not only offered learning experiences but also created a supportive community atmosphere, fostering connections among participants.
Upcoming Events
Come Spend Time With YNN!
Informational Webinar - What is YNN?
Join the Youth Navigator Network (YNN) team for an informative session to learn about our program and how we support young people across Ohio who have experience with foster care, are foster care alumni, or have had an open case with children's services.
Connect With Us
Follow & Spread the Word!
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