Youth Engagement
Island youth are experiencing negative consequences that can be prevented. HYI understands that most Islanders highly value the health and safety of local youth and there are things we can do with youth at any age that will positively impact their development. This includes a focus on youth grades 6 through 12, and members of our community that identify as Chinese, Korean and those members of the LGBTQ+ community.
S.A.F.E. Club
The Mercer Island High School S.A.F.E. (Super, Awesome, Fun, Events) Club prides itself on celebrating healthy lifestyle choices and dissuading students from destructive behaviors like drug and alcohol use. In this new virtual setting, S.A.F.E. Club Co-Presidents Nima Taherzadeh and Hunter Evans are excited to use a different approach to empower students and promote connection.
This school year, S.A.F.E. Club is partnering with Mercer Island Youth and Family Services Healthy Youth Initiative (HYI) to work with Playfish Video, a Seattle-based video production company to create a series of public service announcements for Mercer Island High School. All MIHS students are facing complex challenges, and these videos will address underage substance use, mental health, resilience and community. This campaign is funded by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration received by the HYI to prevent underage alcohol use and binge drinking.
Minds Matter 🧠💭🙂
The Minds Matter Club at Mercer Island High School is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and decreasing the stigma of mental health culture. This group of students hosts promotional events to engage students on mental health topics and provide resources.
Minds Matter promotes the annual Be Kind to Your Mind art contest.