Teen Advisory Group (TAG) Research Program

A Youth Participatory Action Research Project

A HUGE thank you to all our sponsors. With their support, we are able to continue our youth research efforts.

PROGRAM SPONSORS:

Community Action Partnership of SLO

Pismo Beach Veterinary Clinic

Sesloc Federal Credit Union

EVENT SPONSORS:

Verdin Marketing

Peak Wifi

Grocery Outlet Arroyo Grande

BWS Creations

Old Juans Cantina

Central Coast Exchange Club

THE RESULTS ARE IN!

JOIN US as our 2024 TAG Researchers present their data.

Click here for final report.

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TAG YOU'RE IT! 

Are you interested in youth mental health?

Do you want to learn more about youth mental health?

Do you want to make a difference in youth mental health services?

If you answered "YES" to any of the above questions, then we invite you to join us!

CCAMH TAG Research Program is an opportunity for students to participate in peer-led research. This research is called YPAR (Youth Participatory Action Research). Collaborate with area high school students to research the state of youth mental health in your community.

Here's why you should seriously consider this awesome opportunity:

Be a change-maker: Imagine stepping into a world where your voice isn't just heard; it's the driving force behind real transformations in your community. Welcome to YPAR: Your Participation, Your Action, Your Research!

YPAR, or Youth Participatory Action Research, is like a superpower for young minds who are eager to make a difference. It's not your typical classroom stuff – it's more like detective work meets social change. Picture yourself as a social scientist, investigating the issues that matter most to you and your peers. You're not just talking about change; you're making it happen!

Think about a problem that's been bugging you – from climate change to equality to mental health. YPAR lets you dive deep, gather facts, and uncover the hidden stories that need to be told. But here's the coolest part: YPAR isn't just about finding answers; it's about using those answers to spark action.

Imagine interviewing youth in your community, hearing their experiences, and turning those stories into powerful tools for change – like videos, art installations, or even podcasts. YPAR gives you the chance to be a storyteller for justice, using your creativity to open eyes and inspire action.

Why should you be part of YPAR? Well, remember that feeling you get when you finally beat that impossible level in a video game? YPAR is like that, but the stakes are even higher. It's about leveling up society, making it fairer, kinder, and more awesome for everyone. And guess what? You're not alone on this quest. YPAR connects you with other amazing young minds who are just as fired up as you are.

So, why should you consider YPAR? Because it's your chance to be a real-world hero, armed with research, fueled by passion, and ready to create a revolution that starts from the heart and ripples out into the world. Your Participation, Your Action, Your Research! – that's YPAR!

FAQ

  • TAG is a project-based Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) program designed to raise the voices of teens and ignite their advocacy in discovering youth mental health solutions.

  • For the 2023 – 2024 school year, participants must be high school students who live in San Luis Obispo or Santa Cruz counties.

  • It is anticipated that participation in TAG will earn between 10-15 community service hours.

    Upon the successful completion of TAG, students will be given a certificate of completion from Center of Child and Adolescent Mental Health (CCAMH).

    You are solely responsible for following your school’s procedures in having those hours approved and accepted by your school or instructor.

  • Students will need to commit to meeting for 1.5 Hours a week for eight weeks starting February 2024 through April 2024.

  • Yes, this program is completely free.

  • Yes, feel free to encourage friends to apply. We would welcome their participation!

  • TAG activities may be conducted virtually or in person. Participants will need to have access to a phone or computer that will allow them to attend virtual meetings, if needed, and communicate with their peers via text or email.