where it all started...
MAY 2023
the youth wellbeing conversation
In May 2023, a team of 75 adults from youth-serving organizations and 50 youth got together as a result of a shared need to explore what the community could do to create opportunities that build resiliency and increase the protective factors that can buffer the development of more complex issues for youth.​
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The planning team sought to understand the experiences of youth and identify what needs attention and what can be done together to contribute to positive change so youth can feel they belong and have opportunities to thrive.
8 topics were explored across youth, youth-serving organizations, and stakeholders:​
purpose
learning
& growing
mental wellness
8 DOMAINS CONTRIBUTING TO BELONGING AND WELLBEING
places
&
spaces
community
relationships
healthy living
safety
& security
Both youth and adults were asked to complete a pre-conference survey rating either how good their community (youth) or organization (adults) was at supporting youth in each of these domains. The detailed results can be found in the 2023 Youth Wellbeing Report.
3 priorities identified for immediate attention
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MENTAL WELLNESs
2. community hub
3. A youth voice
the youth wellbeing network was formed to approach the identified priorities collaboratively
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Since 2023, the Youth Wellbeing Network continues to meet monthly to come up with ways to approach the identified priorities, continue to engage in the youth feedback loop, and work towards creating a community where youth can thrive.
NOVA SCOTIA MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS
COMMUNITY WELLNESS GRANT
Following the 2023 Youth Wellbeing Report and the formation of the Youth Wellbeing Network, we have been successful recipients of the Community Wellness Grant, which aids in addressing priorities, youth engagement opportunities, and continuing to work collaboratively in community.
this is just the beginning,
the work continues...