I heard about YAC through friends and am interested in joining because I am interested in giving back to the community and contribute to meaningful projects and also to make a positive impact on the future of our youth. I have strong organizational skills, a proactive problem-solving approach, and the ability to collaborate effectively which makes me a valuable asset to the council.

Community service to me means giving back to others and making a positive impact on people's lives. It has shown me the importance of empathy and working together to solve problems. Through my volunteer experiences, I've gained a deeper understanding of different perspectives and the value of helping those in need.

I would like to focus on the issue of mental health. Mental health is a big concern for many young people in our community, and it's important that we take steps to address it.

First, creating a supportive environment at schools is crucial. This can be done by training teachers and staff to recognize signs of mental health issues and provide initial support. Schools can also establish peer support groups where students can share their experiences and support each other. These groups can be a safe space for students to talk about their feelings without fear of judgment.

Second, we should ensure that there are accessible mental health resources. This includes having counselors available at schools who students can talk to confidentially. Additionally, we can collaborate with local mental health organizations to provide free or low-cost counseling services for those who need more help.

Lastly, promoting self-care and stress management techniques can make a big difference. Workshops on mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and time management can help students manage their stress better. Encouraging activities like sports, arts, and hobbies can also provide healthy outlets for stress relief.

By taking these steps, we can create a community where mental health is taken seriously and young people feel supported in their struggles.

I run cross country and track almost year-round but my schedule for that is very flexible so I am very comfortable committing to participating if I am accepted to YAC.

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