The State of Youth Mental Health
rates in the last 15 years in the U.S. for youth between 10-24.
use social media
and half of female students report persistent feelings of hopelessness.
living in communities lack adequate mental health services.
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"National service is a win-win for addressing the teen mental-health crisis because it allows young adults to support each other peer-to-peer while gaining valuable skills and experience, getting paid, and earning a credential."
–Sheri Kersch Schultz, Schultz Family Foundation co-founder and chair
State YMHC Participants
In 2024, YMHC launched in four states, with over 300 young people serving at 165 community sites. In 2025, seven more states will launch, and six are actively designing their programs.
More States Coming
Planning states are using this year to design their YMHC programs. They’re identifying local needs, forging partnerships, and shaping innovative new pathways into the field — from career exploration to certification.
Member Experience
As a Youth Mental Health Corps Member you’ll have the opportunity to enter a mental health career path through one of three certification pathways:
School-based Mental Health Navigator
Members will earn stackable certificates, credentials and/or credits toward a higher education program as they serve in schools, out-of-school-time programs, and community-based youth organizations in communities with limited access to mental health services.
Peer Support / Recovery Specialist
Members who have lived experience with mental health challenges and/or substance use disorder will support peers and near-peers along their recovery journey while getting the training and experience required to earn a peer support/recovery specialist state certification. This pathway is open to those up to age 29.
Community Health Worker
Members will have the opportunity to serve youth and young adults in communities where access to mental health resources is limited, all while receiving the training, support, and experience to earn a community health worker state certification.
Become a Community or State Partner
Learn more about how to become a partner to bring the Youth Mental Health to your community or to sponsor a state-wide Youth Mental Health Corps.