BYC Student Becomes Empowered Advocate for Social Change
The Broward Youth Coalition (BYC) — part of our United Way’s Commission on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention — is a dynamic group of middle- and high-school students who act as peer advocates for substance use prevention and mental health promotion in our community. BYC provides young people with a range of ways to participate in volunteer opportunities, network with community leaders, explore college and career options, and develop both personal and professional skills. Ava, a student at Millennium 6-12 Collegiate Academy, got connected to BYC in 2020 when she was a freshman, and now as a senior, she is the current president of BYC. “Being involved with BYC has been powerful in many ways. I have learned how to be an advocate for equity for under-served people, how to identify warning signs in people’s mental health and how to prioritize my own mental health,” says Ava. “In BYC, we dive into specific, actionable ways to promote better care for ourselves and the people around us. BYC is unmatched in how it connects like-minded students, instills confidence and empowers its members. We really have a unique culture of care, empathy, trust and action. Plus hundreds of BYC students gather at great events like the Youth Leadership Institute and Alternative Spring Break throughout the year, and our work together is redefining community service. I hope donors know their support is paving the future for brighter, better lives!”
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