Youth Advisory Board at West Virginia Prevention Research Center
About this resource
Youth Advisory Board (YAB) Description:
The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a group of young people who help lead and shape the work of the West Virginia Prevention Research Center (WVPRC). It’s a space where youth build leadership and life skills that can help with future careers—especially in research, social science, and community work. YAB members get hands-on experience by giving feedback on WVPRC projects, working with partner organizations, and creating their own activities and projects.
YAB Purpose:
The YAB makes sure that young people’s voices are included in the WVPRC’s work and future plans. Since WVPRC focuses on improving health in communities—especially for youth across West Virginia—it’s important that the people being affected by the work have a say. The YAB helps create connections between youth and adults so they can learn from each other and find better ways to solve the real challenges young people face.
YAB Activities:
YAB members meet online once a month to work on group goals and to help guide the WVPRC’s projects. Each year, members also go on a fun outdoor orientation trip with activities like hiking and rock climbing. YAB also helps organize the annual Youth Summit with Try This WV—a statewide, youth-led conference full of exciting sessions, teamwork, and idea-sharing. It’s a chance for youth to connect, get inspired, and take action to make their communities healthier and stronger.