Health Resources in Action (HRiA), a Boston-based public health organization, has launched an initiative titled "Enhancing Mental Health Capacity for Youth-Serving Organizations" in collaboration with the Boston Public Health Commission’s (BPHC) Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness. The aim is to bolster the capacity of community-based organizations (CBOs) in Boston that consistently serve marginalized youth populations, particularly youth of color and LGBTQ+ youth. This initiative addresses behavioral health disparities by equipping staff from these organizations with skills to support youth mental health needs in non-clinical settings.
Participating organizations will nominate up to two staff members to become Behavioral Health Champions (BHCs). These staff will undergo a 16-hour Training of Trainers (ToT) program delivered by HRiA across four sessions. The training curriculum includes culturally responsive mental health support strategies, trauma-informed and healing-centered practices, and harm reduction in relation to substance use. Upon completion, BHCs will return to their organizations and deliver up to two internal six-hour "Mental Health 101" sessions to their colleagues, volunteers, or community partners.
Organizations accepted into the program can receive up to $5,000 in stipends. This includes $1,500 per staff participant in the ToT program and $1,000 for each internal training session delivered by the BHCs. Additionally, participants will benefit from technical assistance, co-facilitation support, and networking opportunities organized by HRiA. These support structures aim to ensure that the BHCs can confidently deliver training and contribute to long-term culture change within their organizations.
To qualify, organizations must be Boston-based, non-clinical in nature, and consistently provide programming for youth aged 14-18. Their staff should reflect the identities of the youth served, and they must demonstrate longstanding trust and engagement with their communities. Ineligible entities include schools, hospitals, health centers, and for-profit organizations.
The deadline for applications is rolling until all training slots are filled. Selected organizations will be required to send staff to in-person sessions scheduled on January 27 and 29, and February 3 and 5, 2026. The location within Boston is yet to be determined. Within four months of completing the ToT, the internal trainings must be conducted, and data on participant outcomes shared with HRiA.
All inquiries about the program should be directed to youthmh@hria.org. The application process is accessible online and includes optional information sessions and downloadable materials to guide prospective applicants.
Identify committed staff for BHC roles; meet training schedule.
