YouthWell is accepting applications for its 2026-27 Youth Advocacy Board, a countywide leadership program that trains and empowers high school students to become mental health advocates on their campuses and in their communities. Applications close April 19.

The Youth Advocacy Board (YAB) selects one to two students from each public and private high school in Santa Barbara County.

Members learn about youth mental health, build leadership and advocacy skills, lead outreach projects on their campuses, and gain hands-on experience in communication, collaboration, and public speaking.

“Young people are often the first to notice when a peer is struggling,” said Rachael Steidl, executive director of YouthWell. “YAB gives students the tools, the training, and the platform to make a real difference for their classmates and for their schools.”

Applications are available at youthwell.org/youth-advocacy-board. Selected applicants will be contacted for interviews in April and May. Accepted students must attend a one-hour orientation with a guardian on one of two dates, 5 p.m. Sunday, May 17 or 6 p.m. Thursday, May 28.

The program year begins in mid-August. Members are expected to attend monthly meetings, actively participate in projects and represent their school community throughout the year. Students and parents will be asked to sign a commitment agreement upon acceptance.

The program is open to all high school students in Santa Barbara County. All identities and backgrounds are welcome.

For more, email YAB@YouthWell.org or call 805.770.1503.

YouthWell is a Santa Barbara County nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth mental health through prevention, education, and early intervention.

YouthWell connects youth and their families through age 25 to mental health and wellness resources before a crisis strikes. Learn more at YouthWell.org.