• VT RAYS aims to amplify youth voice and engagement in youth health-focused activities.

• In 2023, VT RAYS recruited and onboarded 15 youth members ranging from 13-20 years old across seven Vermont counties.
• VT RAYS members have represented the youth voice in multiple statewide projects and learning sessions. 

• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Council on School Health (COSH) published personal stories written by two VT RAYS members, Julia and Kate. They wrote about their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their stories are posted with permission.
• Julia Shannon-Grillo: 18 in the time of COVID (PDF)
• Katherine Lewton: Still Kids (PDF)
• The VT RAYS and Vermont Afterschool partnered to convene a State Youth Advisory Group (SYAG) to focus on Health Equity in 2021. A report maps out the group’s suggestions for strategies and recommendations to affect change around health equity. Read the Health Equity Report (PDF).
• Four VT RAYS members participated in a panel discussion, “Hot Topics in Social Justice:  Important Issues that Impact Youth Mental Health” at VCHIP’s 2022 CHAMP Learning Session.
• Five VT RAYS presented at the April 6, 2022, University of Vermont Medical Center’s Pediatric Grand Rounds titled, “Youth Friendly and Culturally Responsive Care: A Youth Led Panel”. 

Youth Voice

• Have you ever wondered how to bring the perspectives and thoughts of youth to your work? Learn about the VT RAYS Youth Advisory Board (PDF) and how they can meaningfully contribute to your work and practice.  

Clinic Supports

• Adolescent and Youth Friendly Service Tour Clinic Environment Assessment Tool (PDF) - VT RAYS created a clinic assessment tool to support youth-led walk throughs during which youth share ideas and recommendations for making the environment more youth friendly.
• VT RAYS created a clinic poster, Your Health is in Your Hands (PDF), to encourage young people to schedule their annual well care visit.

Youth Resources

Check out our Resource page under School Age and Adolescence for youth resources and other topic areas!

• Erica Gibson, MD, VCHIP Faculty Advisor
• Angela Zinno, MA, VCHIP Project Coordinator and VT RAYS Facilitator
• Brianne Smith, Vermont Afterschool, Youth Engagement Coordinator and VT RAYS Facilitator
• Christy Gallese, MPA, VCHIP Assistant Director