What is the YAC?

The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is a group of engaged young leaders who play an active role in shaping UChoose Baltimore’s programs, messaging, and outreach strategies. YAC members represent the voices and lived experiences of youth in Baltimore City and serve as co-creators in developing campaigns that are relevant, relatable, and impactful.

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Through activities such as focus groups, community outreach, and participatory design sessions such as podcasting, YAC members provide critical insights that inform sexual health education, youth engagement strategies, and public health communications. Their involvement ensures that initiatives are youth-centered, culturally responsive, and grounded in real community needs.

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The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) started in 2010 to place youth voices at the center of the UChoose campaign. UChoose is dedicated to improving programs promoting youth health and wellness as a part of the B’more for Healthy Babies initiative.

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What will I gain as a YAC member?

• Provide guidance and feedback to the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Initiative (part of the Baltimore City Health Department, within the Bureau of Maternal and Child Health and the Bureau of HIV/STDs)

• Engage in professional and leadership development trainings

• Gain knowledge on health and strong relationships

• Mobilize other young people to raise awareness of the UChoose campaign

• Receive a stipend for participation

• Form lasting relationships with community health leaders in Baltimore City

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What does the YAC do?

• Meet bi-monthly

• Learn different health topics affecting teens

• Provide feedback on campaign messages

• Plan and conduct outreach activities for youth in the city

• Develop creative and artistic projects for education of youth and outreach