WELLINGTON COUNTY – A fresh group of youth are now leading an expanded mental health program across four local hub locations.
The Grove Hubs Wellington Guelph announced this week they have expanded their Youth Advisory Council (YAC), to involve each of the four hubs in Erin, Guelph, Palmerston, and Fergus.
Youth ambassador of the Fergus site, Marisa Barbosa tells the Grand at 101 the Fergus location has grown from four people to ten-to-11 per meeting.
Barbosa went on to say hearing perspectives from the 12–26-year-old participants is crucial.
Barbosa says the program that began at the outset of the pandemic is vital for many people in this age group who were affected by COVID.
Barbosa claimed youth engagement is the most important part of her job.
She added the YAC is integral to how things are implemented within the hubs, and says she wants youth to be the driving force of their wellness journeys.
The YAC is involved in a movement for more equity and diversity in programming and have the ability to partner with various committees to help plan and host youth events.
The council now meets monthly at all four sites following the expansion.
