The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) of Mason County conducts a needs assessment every three years to determine the top concerns and needs of its local youth. YAC sent a questionnaire to all area high schools last fall, and 679 students responded.  

Students were asked to choose their top 5 issues from a list of 35 possible concerns. Academic stress was the top concern for 53% of the respondents. Substance abuse, including vaping, was the second top concern, chosen by 41% of students. Mental health came in third, with 39% of respondents selecting it as a major issue. Home life and bullying/cyberbullying were also significant concerns, each chosen by 25% of respondents.

Most students who responded to the needs assessment said they felt hopeful about their future.  The students who felt less hopeful attributed lack of motivation and money as obstacles limiting their future success. Mental health was also seen as a possible contributing factor.

Most students who responded to the survey felt it is important to give back to their community, yet only 31% are involved in some type of volunteer service. When asked what obstacles interfered with their ability to give back, most students responded that lack of time and awareness of volunteer opportunities were the top two limitations.

Students who responded to the questionnaire also had an opportunity to provide suggestions on making life better for local teens. A number of respondents suggested increasing access to counselors to improve mental health and support the college application process. Safe spaces to go, such as teen rec centers, were also highly suggested.

To learn more about the Youth Advisory Council, please visit Youth Advisory Council – Community Foundation for Mason County.