Youth Health Initiative
Empowering Youth. Improving Health.
This Month’s Theme
Women’s health is a vital part of building strong, informed, and resilient communities. Our organization is dedicated to educating youth on key women’s health topics, promoting awareness, and breaking stigmas surrounding issues such as menstrual health, reproductive care, and overall well-being. By empowering young people with knowledge and leadership opportunities, we aim to create lasting change and improve health outcomes for women everywhere. Through our partnership this month with Days for Girls, we help create reusable menstrual kits for individuals who lack access to essential menstrual products. These kits provide a sustainable, dignified solution that supports health, education, and confidence for those in need.
Local Issues
Mental Struggles
Across Ohio, about 20% of middle school students and 33% of high school students report that their mental health is not good most or all of the time. Emotional struggles, feelings of sadness and hopelessness, and other mental health challenges continue to rise among youth.
Locally, surveys show that around 1 in 4 teens in Cuyahoga County report depressive symptoms, and about 1 in 6 have seriously considered suicide — figures that highlight the urgency of support and community-based resources.
General Health Access
In Cuyahoga County, where neighborhood conditions vary widely, health outcomes and life expectancy can differ dramatically depending on where someone lives. Residents in areas with high poverty and fewer resources often face poorer health and shorter lives — with life expectancy varying by up to about 23 years between nearby communities, showing how deeply social and economic conditions shape health opportunities.
FAQs
How do I join? Navigate to the “Get Involved” tab and fill out the form to become either a volunteer or a Student Ambassador!
How much time do I have to put into the organization? Not a lot of time at all! But we would love it if you supported us at volunteer/fundraising events. As a volunteer, you should contribute at least once a month (either volunteering/fundraising, or sending in an article).
When are the monthly meetings? Fill out the volunteer form and we will add you to the email list to receive meeting information!
Upon submitting my application to join the organization, how long will it take before I receive a response? You should receive a response in around 2-3 days, and if you have not, please contact us ASAP!
How do I volunteer/fundraise with the organization? Join our email list by submitting an application in the “Get Involved” tab, and we will send out more information there!
Where do we volunteer/fundraise? Currently we are based mostly in Northeast Ohio, so if you live around there then volunteer with us! More branches to come in California and Minnesota!