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2023 Youth Town Hall

Teens Unite: Youth Town Hall to discuss issues of mental health, wellness

Happy Valley area high school students are encouraged to attend an informative and interactive event at City Hall that will focus on youth mental health and wellness. Discussion topics will focus on ways teens can get more involved in the community and support their peers who may be struggling.

Community leaders and experts from Clackamas County Health Services and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will join the discussion and engage participants in open dialogue. The hope is that by encouraging communication amongst community youth, attendees will not only be better able to recognize and help others who may be struggling, but they will also find ways to ask for help should they find themselves in need of support. In addition to activities aimed at helping teens connect and get to know one another, discussions will specifically focus on issues related to the health implications of vaping, the dangers of drug and alcohol use, the importance of mental health, and suicide prevention.

The Happy Valley Youth Council, which has become known throughout the State as the model for bringing the youth voice to the forefront, is responsible for several youth-focused initiatives including a Rx Drug Take Back event, Car Care safety event, and several community forums. The Youth Council’s work has been recognized nationally for its innovation and topical relevance, with youth councilors launching an annual Youth Summit that focuses on a variety of topics and traveling to Washington, D.C. to participate in important legislative conversations.

Happy Valley Youth Council’s Town Hall event is slated to take place Nov. 15. Event begins at 6 p.m. with an opportunity for participating teens to meet and interact. A panel presentation will begin at 7 p.m. Dinner is included. For planning purposes, teens interested in participating are asked to register for this FREE community event.

Teens can register for this FREE event by connecting with Stephani Hern at 503-783-3800 or by email [email protected].

*PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT MAY INCLUDE CONTENT THAT IS SENSITIVE IN NATURE. Discussion will be guided by the City of Happy Valley youth council advisors and mental health professionals.