Youth
Leaders
in Kansas, known more commonly around the state by its acronym, YLINK, offers an opportunity for young adults to develop community awareness and youth leadership skills during the formative ages of 12 to 18 years. Various YLINK sites can be found in cities and small towns across the state of Kansas. They operate with the local support and guidance of caring adult volunteers, community partners, and alongside the youth's primary caregiver(s), especially parents.
YLINK provides youth a unique learning experience while interacting with peers, supportive adults, and their communities in positive ways which lays the foundation for successful future endeavors as they learn and explore the real world and their ability to contribute.
YLINK is a great resource for young adults with information on the importance of education and development of individual and group leadership skills in their local community, statewide and even nationally. The program provides an array of experiences which includes, but is not limited to, improving family and peer relationships, community engagement, incorporating knowledge and training for employment and/or vocational education and self-advocacy skills.
YLINK groups promote and provide programs that address mental health stigma reduction, suicide prevention, behavioral health awareness, youth voice and advocacy. There are also opportunities for youth to participate in the state legislative process and learn about politics and advocacy at every level. Providing input to the Governor’s Behavioral Health Services Planning Council is a prime example.
YLINK supports a youth conference annually to celebrate the successes of its local groups. The youth are joined by national speakers, attend breakout learning sessions on multiple topics and have a lot of FUN!
For current conference information or to learn how to apply to become a YLINK group contact the KDADS Youth Engagement Specialist at [email protected]
The program is supported through grant funds from the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services's Behavioral Health Services Commission.
Complete the following questions to apply for the opportunity to represent the voice of Gen Z from all over Kansas, advocate for your generation, advise the Governor’s Behavioral Health Services Planning Council and create real and lasting change in the state of Kansas.