YAN, a coalition of county youth agencies, invites participation

The Youth Agency Network of Sheboygan County began its 20th year of collaboration this January by revisiting its purpose, mission and values and strengthening its commitment to the future of young people in Sheboygan County.

The coalition of over 12 local youth-serving agencies, organizations and institutions will begin this new chapter by focusing on their collective experiences in building Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets of Youth, implementing a Youth Action Council, and building opportunities for youth-serving agencies to network.

Past projects of YAN have included publishing the “Do Something” brochure, which listed numerous opportunities for youth to participate in throughout Sheboygan County, raising funds for youth events and activities and developing collaborative programming. The recently refocused network hopes the new priorities will better meet the needs of youth-serving agencies and the youth served.

The YAN Youth Action Council will launch with an informational meeting to be held Thursday, April 22, from 6-7 p.m. at the University of Wisconsin-Extension Offices on the campus of UW-Sheboygan. Youth, ages 13-17, interested in making a difference for other youth throughout Sheboygan County, are invited to participate.

Youth and adults are welcome to collaborate in the efforts of YAN by joining them at their next meeting at 10 a.m. Friday, May 21, at the UW-Extension Offices located on the campus of UW-Sheboygan. YAN meetings are bi-monthly.

For more information, contact YAN co-chair(s) Erik Wagner of the Family Resource Center at (920) 892-6706 or Sarah Tarjeson of UW-Extension at (920) 459-5915.