Vanderburgh County Commissioners and County Council Award $300,000 to Youth First

The Vanderburgh County Commission and County Council are investing in the mental health and well-being of Vanderburgh County youth. Elected officials voted to allocate $300,000 in American Rescue Plan federal funds to support Youth First’s social work services in 48 Vanderburgh County schools, where they are accessible to 23,000 students, their families, and educators.

This prevention partnership will help reduce stress, boost resiliency skills, strengthen our future workforce, and ultimately, lead to a stronger, safer, and healthier community.

Youth First partners with 117 schools across 13 Indiana counties to embed prevention programs and 83 skilled mental health professionals in school buildings, where they become specialized mentors for students and prevention coaches for parents and teachers. Youth First Social Workers build caring relationships, foster readiness for positive change, and boost resiliency along with other valuable life skills.

Research shows these protective factors are the keys to effective prevention of negative outcomes for young people. The organization’s positive work and strategies are driving growth, with more schools seeking Youth First’s help to address the growing need for mental health supports for students.