Youth Advisory Council (YAC)

The Public Health Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is a program where teens (ages 14-18) from diverse backgrounds in Maricopa County can meet to provide their unique perspectives on different healthcare topics to structure public health programming. In addition, it allows them to participate in a government-level program during the academic year. 

The 2023-2024 applications are now closed. Please keep an eye out for next year's application in May 2024.

Who should apply?

Youth impacted by public health issues such as access to health care, tobacco use, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ youth are strongly encouraged to apply when the recruitment period opens. You must be 14-18 years old to apply.

It also helps if you:

  • Have an interest in learning about Public Health 
  • Are open to building new skills sets
  • Want to increase your ability to advocate 
  • Are interested in collaborating with community partners

Benefits of the program

YAC promotes positive outcomes for participants by fostering positive relationships in a supportive environment and building their leadership skills. For example, current and past members have increased advocacy for their communities and growth in their self-confidence and youth resiliency. The hope is to expand those opportunities into public health internships, volunteer hours, advocacy work, college readiness, and leadership.

  • Advocate for your community 
  • Raise awareness of important health issues impacting youth
  • Develop and lead projects that can help make impact in your community
  • Work with Public Health staff and department programs to advise and make appropriate recommendations on health issues impacting youth, learn how to make improvements and help guide current and future youth programs.
  • Advocate for policy change where needed
  • Work experience and leadership opportunities
  • Youth can receive incentives for their participation

Want to partner with YAC for your public health project?

Partner with Maricopa County's YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL Are you interested in a youth perspective f

Fill out our interest form to get a youth perspective on your program!


Questions?

For questions or more information, contact: 

Maricopa County Department of Public Health Office of Tobacco Prevention and Cessation (OTPC) & Child and Maternal Health cooperatively facilitate the Youth Advisory Council.