Youth Advisory Board
Buffalo County Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a program and philosophy that recognizes youth as valuable community resources and empowers them as equal community partners to bring about positive community change. Supported by local funders, Buffalo County YAB is governed by a board of youth (7th-12th grade) and mentored by adults.
YAB members tackle a range of social problems that concern youth, from alcohol, tobacco, and drug misuse prevention to stress relief and peer support for students. Current projects support youth peer mentoring, self-care, and evidence-based training to foster mental wellness and change the culture of their schools and communities.
Meet Abby Lewandowski, a junior from Ravenna high school
“I am involved in many extracurricular activities such as speech, one-act, FBLA, track, etc.; however, YAB has made one of the biggest positive impacts on me. When I joined the Youth Advisory Board, I was terrified of meeting new people and making new connections, but I slowly started opening up. As I shared more of my ideas and worked on different projects, my confidence grew. I realized I want to meet new people and advocate for those who can’t advocate for themselves. I want to help the people who suffered like I did when I was twelve, thirteen, and fourteen. Today, I feel more confident speaking to others, standing up for things I believe in, and sharing my ideas.”
–Abby Lewandowski
YAM Member, Ravenna High School
Ready to Join?
Click/tap the button below to start your application for the Youth Advisory Board. You will receive an email with an additional form to fill out that needs a parent/guardian signature. We look forward to meeting you!
Click/Tap Here!
