Last Friday, Vibrant Emotional Health had the privilege of participating in an impactful event hosted by New York State Senator Nathalia Fernandez, Chair of the Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders Committee, at PS 72 Auditorium in District 34. This event brought together key stakeholders to discuss and share resources for supporting youth mental health in our community.

Steven Quinones, Bronx Adolescent Skills Center (ASC) Clinical Specialist, and Jonathan Reyes, NYCPP Co-Chair, Borough Base Council Bronx, The Coordinated Children Services Initiative (CCSI), presented on a panel that provided invaluable insights into our youth programs and initiatives. They were joined by other dedicated staff members, including Erika Esquivel, Alyssa Cruz, and Helen Khealie from our Bronx ASC and CCSI programs, who tabled the event and distributed resources about youth mental health services.

Vibrant’s Adolescent Skills Centers (ASC) prepares individuals ages 16-22 struggling with emotional and behavioral challenges to succeed in the workforce through comprehensive vocational training, supportive educational programs, and mental health support. By helping youth and young adults develop skills that will sustain them throughout adulthood, we prepare young people to find and retain employment, continue their development with training programs, and pursue secondary and higher education goals.

The Coordinated Children’s Services Initiative (CCSI) of New York City is a unique cross-systems forum that brings together parents, caregivers, youth, and service providers throughout the five boroughs of NYC every month. The goal is to create meaningful dialogue, share resources, and advocate for increased awareness and quality access to care for children and youth with mental and emotional health challenges. 

Events like these are a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of community engagement in addressing youth mental health. We are immensely thankful for Senator Fernandez’s dedication to these critical issues and for providing a space for such an insightful discussion. Her support is instrumental in our ongoing efforts to address and improve the mental health and well-being of young people in the community.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with Senator Fernandez and other State and City leaders to ensure every young person in New York can access the resources and support they need to thrive.