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SUPPORTING YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH

Why This Issue Matters

At WCA, promoting youth development is a core priority. Research shows that healthy emotional development in young children is crucial for their lifelong cognitive and social success. The CDC emphasizes that positive youth development programs enhance identity, future belief, self-regulation, and overall competence. WCA employs a comprehensive approach to support youth development and mental health. Research shows that healthy emotional development is key to lifelong success, and WCA has long championed mental health. In 2005, our report No Time to Lose exposed the lack of resources, leading to the creation of Early Step Forward—a program where specialists support low-income children and families in day care and Head Start. We continue to advocate for mental health through community discussions, including our 2021 & 2023 Round Tables and our 2022 Advocacy Breakfast, focusing on current needs and future resources.

Encouraging Youth Involvement

Since January 1, 2020, New York residents as young as 16 can pre-register to vote, enhancing civic engagement for young people with stability and support.
 
Project Engage empowers Westchester youth to stay informed and active in their communities, especially around elections.
 
Explore our toolkits to pre-register, learn about voter engagement, and more.

Join the Campaign for Kids Coalition

to advocate for youth resources.

Campaign for Kids: Advocating for Quality Youth Programs

How young people spend their after-school and summer hours significantly impacts their academic, social, and emotional well-being. Quality youth programs offer academic enrichment, skill development, and positive peer relationships, giving working parents peace of mind. Yet, many Westchester children lack access to such programs.
 
Background:
Since 1994, Campaign for Kids, led by WCA, has advocated for County funding of community-based youth programs through the Invest in Kids Fund. However, recent funding processes have faced transparency issues and delays. WCA has been working to reform these grant processes since 2015.
SHOW YOUR CONCERN FOR WCA
SIGN THE ONLINE PETITION NOW

WCA’s Current Efforts

  1. Leading the Campaign for Kids to ensure fair, transparent, and accountable funding.
  2. Advocating for regular program evaluations and best practices.
  3. Seeking funds to assess youth program needs in Westchester.

For More Information

Westchester County’s 2024 Budget

WCA continues to advocate for prioritizing children’s safety, housing, and well-being. As part of the Campaign for Kids coalition, our 2024 County Budget Agenda includes:
  • Sustaining the Invest in Kids program.
  • Preventing child and youth homelessness and increasing investments in affordable housing.
  • Boosting early childhood supports and home visiting services.
  • Funding mental health services for children and youth outside of school settings.
  • Creating pathways for community-based organizations to access Raise the Age funding.

How You Can Help

  • Review the 2024 Westchester County Budget to see proposed changes.
  • Sign our Petition for equitable support of children’s mental and physical health.
  • Boosting early childhood supports and home visiting services.
  • Speak Up at Public Hearings: Address the Westchester County Board of Legislators at the following events (arrive early to speak):
    • Thursday, November 16th, 2023 at 6 PM: Warner Public Library, 121 N. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591
    • Monday, November 20th, 2023 at 7 PM: Chappaqua Performing Arts Center, 480 N. Bedford Rd., Chappaqua, NY 10514
    • Wednesday, December 6th, 2023 at 7 PM: Westchester Board of Legislators Chambers, 8th Floor, 148 Martine Ave, White Plains, NY 10601
LEARN MORE
470 Mamaroneck Avenue Suite 304
White Plains, NY 10605
914.946.7676
[email protected]

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  • Child & Youth Homelessness
  • Home Visiting / Early Childhood Development
  • Youth Justice / Raise the Age
  • Youth Development