Youth Advocacy Program (YAP)

The Healthy Maine Partnerships value young people as essential partners in creating positive community change. Every Healthy Maine Partnership across the state has a Youth Advocacy Program (YAP) component designed to engage youth in health promotion and disease prevention efforts. Young people who are involved in a YAP group or YAP initiative work to make positive changes in their communities around physical activity, healthy eating, substance abuse prevention, and tobacco prevention and control. These YAP initiatives harness the unique perspectives, fresh energy and desire to take action that young people bring, as well as providing an opportunity for youth to be integrally involved in community life across multiple sectors, promoting their development as new leaders and concerned citizens.

Benefits of YAP for Youth

Voice: Youth learn to express their opinions

Skills: Effective Communication, Organization, Leadership, Advocacy, and Empowerment

Self-Esteem: Youth develop self worth by being part of a positive effort

Pride: For Youth, Families, and Community

Mentoring & Role Modeling: Show younger children that being involved can be exciting

Quality of Life: Youth learn to live healthier, more successful lives