What is YAAC?
The Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC) is a paid advisory council within the Pathways to Mental Health Equity (PMHE) Working Group at Drexel University's Dornsife School of Public Health.
PMHE works to co-create mental health supports for Black and African American young adults in Philadelphia. The YAAC helps keep young adults at the center of that work. Members bring their perspectives and lived experience with mental health, support, community, school, work, and social media in Philadelphia. Their input helps our team decide what PMHE should prioritize and how our work should be designed and communicated.
Who can join?
You’re eligible to apply if you are:
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A Black/African American young adult
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Ages 18–24
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Living in Philadelphia
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Able to access a device with Wi-Fi
No prior research or mental health experience is needed. What matters is your perspective.
What will members do?
As a YAAC member, you will:
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Share your perspective on mental health and well-being as a young adult in Philadelphia
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Help identify gaps and priorities in mental health support
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Give feedback on PMHE programs, materials, and how we communicate with young adults
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Help shape PMHE activities and future mental health supports
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Build community with other young adults who care about mental health and equity
What is the commitment?
The YAAC meets approximately once a month for 60–90 minutes. Meetings may be virtual or in person, depending on the activity.
Is this a paid oppurtunity?
Yes.
YAAC members receive $50 for each meeting they attend. This compensation recognizes the time, perspectives, and lived expertise members contribute to PMHE.
Optional research opportunities
YAAC members may also be invited to participate in PMHE research studies, including our digital photovoice project, which uses photography and storytelling to explore mental health experiences.
Research participation is completely optional and separate from YAAC membership. You can be fully involved in the council without participating in any research study.
