Empower Youth Advisory Board (YAB) provides high school students from central and northern New Jersey with volunteer opportunities and leadership roles at the county, regional, and state level. Students from Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, or Union County can apply to Empower YAB. This group focuses on important topics related to youth health and wellness including: mental health, tobacco and vaping, substance misuse, sexual and reproductive health and wellness, and LGBTQ+ rights.

Empower YAB is funded by The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), Drug Free Communities (DFC) and The New Jersey Prevention Network (NJPN). Empower YAB is involved in different campaigns offered to youth such as the NJDOH Statewide YAB as the central region chapter, and Incorruptible.Us as the Somerset County chapter.

We empower youth to become leaders, advocates, and ambassadors for public health programs. YAB members have the opportunity to make an impact statewide and nationally. They can positively influence their peers and make a difference in their communities.

Empower YAB will have virtual and in-person meetings, as well as asynchronous activities that the members can participate in. Members are also offered community service hours, letters of recommendations, and references for employment.

Empower YAB Requirements:

1. Must be a middle or high school youth (grades 9-12)

2. Must be located in Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, or Union County.

3. Must be willing to participate, voice your opinion, and work as part of a team

Thank you for considering Empower YAB, we look forward to having you join our community! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to send an email to yab@empowersomerset.com

~ Marvi (Empower YAB Coordinator)