Children’s Service Fund

Youth. Funding Youth.

Children’s Service Fund

The Community Health Commission of Missouri (CHCM) has partnered with the St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund (CSF) to launch the St. Louis Youth Advisory Council (YAC). The YAC is a youth-led grantmaking council launching in early 2026. CSF invests in local nonprofits and governmental entities to provide mental and behavioral health services for kids and families in St. Louis County. Building on this commitment, the YAC will elevate youth voices in shaping grantmaking priorities and investments.

Through this inaugural program, St. Louis County youth aged 14-19 years-old will learn about the grantmaking process, make funding recommendations, and engage in decision-making activities to build leadership skills. The YAC will focus on three components: grantmaking, advocacy and promotion, and assessment of youth needs.

Who’s Involved

Youth Participants and Education Champions

Youth Advisory Council

YAC members will:

  • Participate in frequent meetings, up to twice per month, which include trainings and facilitated discussions
  • Develop a youth-led grantmaking process focused on mental and behavioral health
  • Strengthen relationships with peers from across the St. Louis County region
  • Engage in decision making activities to build leadership skills
  • Activate their advocacy potential by identifying and assessing youth needs and creating pathways to push change

Education Champions

Education Champions help bring the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) to life in their schools. They:

  • Serve as a member of the YAC Taskforce, helping to design and develop the YAC
  • Attend and participate in monthly planning meetings and YAC convenings
  • Recruit up to 5 students from your school/district to participate in the YAC
  • Accompany youth to experiential experiences along with CHCM staff and serve as a chaperone
  • Serve as a connector and communication lead for YAC members and their parents/guardians
  • Support youth in being successful in their YAC experience
  • Commit to supporting the YAC from November 15, 2025 through July 2027

Have questions about the Youth Advisory Council?

Reach out to our team today.

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