The State of Youth Mental Health
rates in the last 15 years in the U.S. for youth between 10-24.
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and half of female students report persistent feelings of hopelessness.
living in communities lack adequate mental health services.
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"The Youth Mental Health Corps is a win-win 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 its first year in Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, and Texas, the YMHC deployed 317 Corps members across 172 service sites, serving more than 16,000 young people. Now in its second year, the Youth Mental Health Corps is active in 11 states, having expanded into California, Iowa, Maryland, New York, Oregon, Utah, and Virginia – representing 175% growth.
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More States Coming
For the 2026-2027 school year, the Youth Mental Health Corps will be active in 18 states, with plans to expand to half the country by the following year.
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 people 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.