1. Youth Engagement Initiatives

2. Committed to working with youth… Linking youth with opportunities Supporting local and provincial initiatives Tools and training for youth and professionals Strong adult-youth partnerships A better CYMH system

3. Youth-led funding program Ontario youth team up with adult mentors Create school or community-based projects that address mental health Up to $5000 awarded to successful group applications All applications are reviewed and selected by a team of youth Deadlines are October and March every year Visit www.daretodreamprogram.cawww.daretodreamprogram.ca

4. Art Mural Project Introduce and discuss mental health Engage young people in a creative art process Learn techniques through an artist/instructor Demonstrate how art can be used for advocacy In partnership with the Ottawa School of Art

5. One of four committees that advise the Centre and help to shape its work and activities. CAN includes adults and youth who have experienced the child and youth mental health system as consumers, parents, caregivers and/or advocates. Youth contribute in valuable ways to discussions and decision-making. Each young person brings unique experiences and personal expertise to the table.

6. The New Mentality In partnership with Childrens Mental Health Ontario. The New Mentality (TNM) supports youth, adults, and mental health agencies in coming together to form effective partnerships. TNM works to change the way youth and adults value one another, and to create opportunities for them to work together as partners. TNM is based on a growing body of evidence that youth engagement as a practice, works!

7. Overview of the morning… Ready…Set…Engage! by Nancy Perreira A look at youth engagement as a practise, some tips for getting started, what needs to be in place to make it work. A panel of peeps! by Bronwyn Loucks An overview of a local youth engagement project bringing together youth and 6 agencies to address mental health through art. TYPS ( Town Youth Participation Strategies) by Les Voakes How a small local grass-roots organization has grown to support youth and Youth Centres in rural communities across Canada. Your Questions…Their Advice!