Behavior Health and Wellness and Leadership Program

Health and Wellness Program (HWP) teaches young people how to live and maintain healthy lifestyles, work with parents, teachers, and other adults within the community, and to recognize and address unhealthy behaviors. This component is led by two of our Board Members with Doctorates in Psychology, and Public Health, and are certified Mental Health First Aid Instructors that ensure TYA staff members are trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA).

The program provides monthly workshops and an annual leadership retreat for the youth. Family counseling is also provided as needed. Our psychologists link families to therapeutic services and educational assessments when needed.  

The Health and Wellness program works in tandem with the Leadership program offering sessions that examine African-American youth images in social media and hip hop culture, provides tools for positive emotional development, team-building and communication. Sessions are conducted on anger management, mindfulness, navigating peer pressure, tools for managing depression and anxiety, as well as leadership exercises and tasks.

College Preparatory , is another aspect of the Health & Wellness program, is used to help members build resumes, prepare their college essays, assist with the various portals for applying to schools, tutoring, etc.

"We believe the arts come from the soul and providing the young people with tools to expand their capacity of living as a healthy human being allows their artistic expressions to manifest not only on stage but in their lives."

Arla Little Victory, Director