YAB Member Agreement & Expectations
The Youth Behavioral Health Advisory Board (YAB) is a youth-driven leadership group that works to improve mental health awareness, peer support, and wellness across North Arkansas. As a YAB member, you play an important role in your school and community.
This agreement outlines what you can expect from the program and what the program expects from you.
As a YAB member, you will receive:
✔ A welcoming, respectful environment
Where your voice matters, your experiences are valued, and your ideas shape real change.
✔ Leadership training & skill-building
Including public speaking, mental health literacy, teamwork, advocacy, and project planning.
✔ Mentorship & support
From trained adult advisors who use a trauma-informed, culturally responsive approach.
✔ Opportunities to make an impact
You’ll help plan youth-driven mental health initiatives at your school and in your community.
✔ Service hours or recognition
Where available through the program or your school.
✔ A safe space
Psychological safety is our top priority. No one is asked to share personal trauma or private information.
1. Participation & Attendance
- Attend quarterly regional YAB meetings (virtual).
- Attend monthly, in-person school-specific meetings
- Notify an advisor if you will be absent.
- Participate actively and respectfully in group discussions and activities.
- Attend pre-approved training sessions (you will be notified in advance)
- Expect to spend 2- 4 hours per month
2. Leadership & Collaboration
- Complete leadership training
- Share ideas, listen to others, and work as part of a team.
- Take part in planning or supporting youth-led mental health activities.
- Represent your school and peers responsibly.
- Support a school-based Behavioral Health (BH) group (as needed)
- Mentor middle school BH groups
3. Respect & Confidentiality
- Respect the privacy of others.
- Do not share personal stories or information outside the group.
- Uphold a culture of safety, kindness, and inclusivity.
- Represent peers respectfully and ethically
4. Professionalism & Communication
- Respond to messages from advisors in a timely manner when possible.
- Use appropriate language and behavior during meetings and events.
- Ask for help when you need it — academically, emotionally, or logistically.
5. Youth Leadership Values
Members agree to uphold YAB values:
Youth Voice – Your firsthand knowledge has power.
Inclusivity – Everyone deserves to feel safe and welcome.
Courage – Mental health conversations take bravery.
Responsibility – You are a role model for other students.
Compassion – We lead with empathy, not judgment.
YAB members are selected to ensure representation across counties, schools, grade levels, and firsthand knowledge. Selection is based on interest, commitment, communication, expression, and willingness to collaborate. Selection is NOT based on outstanding academic performance or prior experience.
Mandated Reporting Notice:
ABHIN staff and YAB advisors are mandated reporters. This means that any information shared with us that suggests a youth is being harmed, may harm themselves or others, or is in an unsafe situation, must be reported to the appropriate authorities to help ensure safety.
