This spring, MAC Midwest officially launched its first Youth Advisory Board (YAB), bringing together a passionate group of student leaders committed to advocacy, inclusion, and helping shape the future of our organization and community.
The Youth Advisory Board was created to provide young people with meaningful opportunities to share their perspectives, collaborate on projects, and help influence initiatives that impact learners, families, and the broader community. Students from both the Twin Cities and Duluth areas participated in the inaugural meeting, connecting both in person and virtually as one unified group.
Throughout the kickoff meeting, students participated in introductions, discussions about the future of the YAB, and brainstorming sessions focused on community engagement, advocacy, awareness, and future events. The group also began exploring how they can support MAC Midwest initiatives while helping create more inclusive and supportive communities for individuals and families.
One of the most exciting parts of launching the YAB is the opportunity for students to help shape the board itself. As the founding members of the Youth Advisory Board, these students will play an important role in building the structure, culture, and future direction of the program.
The YAB also creates opportunities for students to gain leadership experience, collaborate with peers, participate in meaningful projects, and connect with MAC Midwest leadership and community partners. Future discussions may include advocacy initiatives, fundraising and awareness projects, community events, and creative opportunities to amplify youth voices within the autism and mental health communities.
At MAC Midwest, we believe every voice matters. Creating spaces where young people feel empowered, supported, and heard is an important part of building stronger communities and more inclusive systems of support.
We are incredibly excited about the future of the Youth Advisory Board and grateful to the students who stepped forward to be part of this first chapter. We look forward to watching this group grow and seeing the impact they will make across our organization and community.
