Youth Support Group is a program that was identified by partners as an action, that when combined with other actions in our community, that has a reasonable chance of making a difference in prenatal care in our community. This is a new program in our community. The priority population/customers for this program are youth, and the program aims to make a difference at the individual and organizational level. Implementation will take place in the community. This program will be designed to educate our youth on a range of health topics and create a safe and supportive school environment. Groups like these will improve protective factors and health outcomes for students that can last a lifetime. 

The partners for this include:

• Polk County Schools - Lead

• Polk County Health and Human Services Agency - Collaborative 

• Polk County Health and Wellness Coalition - Support

Due to funding, this project has been placed on hold. 

In 2023, significant progress was made in initiating youth support groups aimed at fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for young people in the community. Among the notable developments was the establishment of a Support Group for LGBTQIA+ Youth and their parents, held every last Tuesday of the month at The Congregational Church, UCC in Tryon. This initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. By providing a safe and welcoming space for discussion, support, and advocacy, the support group aims to promote acceptance, understanding, and empowerment within the community. Through this initiative, efforts to cultivate a culture of inclusivity and support for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families demonstrate a commitment to diversity and equity in the community's youth support programs.