RELEASE: Youth-Adult Partnership to elevate youth voices in public health

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 19, 2025

Youth-Adult Partnership to elevate youth voices in public health

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health is launching the Youth-Adult Partnership, a new initiative bringing together youth and adults from across the state to help shape public health programs

The Youth-Adult Partnership (YAP) will culminate in a Youth Empowerment Action (YEA) Summit, early in 2026, is designed to elevate youth voices and support public health strategies that reflect the needs and experiences of young people in New Mexico.

"YAP is a paradigm a paradigm shift in how we lead change," said Tessa-Medina-Lucero, adolescent health coordinator with the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH). By valuing youth and adults as equal contributors, YAP redefines collaboration across generations to create community-driven solutions in health, leadership, and civic engagement."

NMDOH is recruiting up to 30 individuals to serve as inaugural members of the YAP Committee for the 2025-2026 school year. During their term, members will help plan the 2026 YEA Summit, where youth from across the state.

Youth YAP member will receive a stipend for their contributions. All members will be trained in Youth-Adult Partnership and the Positive Youth Development approach to enhance youth resilience.

To apply to be part of the NMDOH Youth-Adult Partnership Committee, complete this short application form by September 1. Applicants must be resident of New Mexico and should apply as a team consisting of one adult (age 25+) and two youth (ages 14-24). Only one application per team is required.

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NMHealth

David Barre, Communications Coordinator | david.barre@doh.nm.gov | (505) 699-9237

NMHealth works to promote health and wellness, improve health outcomes, and deliver services to all New Mexicans. As New Mexico’s largest state agency, DOH offers public health services in all 33 counties and collaborates with 24 Native American Tribes, Pueblos and Nations.

New Mexico Department of Health | 1190 S St Francis Dr | Santa Fe, NM 87505 US

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