Six months ago, the Manchester Youth Wellness and Prevention Collaborative was simply an ambitious idea envisioned by Makin’ It Happen and Amoskeag Health. They launched the concept, uncertain if it would take hold, but driven to make a meaningful difference. By September, that idea had transformed into a thriving initiative, gaining traction and support. The collaborative united key stakeholders, including an expanding network of partners and Manchester’s Mayor J. Ruais, to present their strategic plan focused on enhancing youth wellness across the community.
The meeting, held at AmeriHealth Caritas NH to accommodate the growing number of attendees, was a testament to the collaborative’s expanding influence. To keep the mood energized, Aroma Joe’s location #34 of Manchester generously supplied coffee and donuts, an appreciated gesture that helped fuel the conversation.
Keynote speakers at the event included Sophia Defrancesco from Waypoint, Chris Stetson representing the Granite YMCA of Greater Manchester, and co-facilitators Ashley Bachert of Makin’ It Happen and Emily Carrara from Amoskeag Health. Each speaker highlighted the progress the collaborative had made in its short lifespan, from new partnerships to actionable steps towards their goals. Their updates sparked hope and excitement about the future, underscoring that the collaborative had indeed “stuck” and was making a meaningful difference in the Manchester community.
Over the course of the first year, the collaborative achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of two key community goals, the formation of a strong network of partners, and the rollout of Botvin Life Skills Training at both the Granite YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club of Manchester.
The September meeting served as both a celebration of these accomplishments and an opportunity to demonstrate the impact the collaborative has had thus far. It also allowed community stakeholders to witness firsthand the positive strides being made toward improving youth wellness in Manchester.
The Manchester Youth Wellness and Prevention Collaborative is ready to build on its early momentum and continue driving positive change in the community. With a clear plan for the future and strong backing from engaged partners, the collaborative is well-positioned to expand its impact in the coming year. As they enter Phase Two, the focus will shift toward environmental strategies that promise to deliver even more lasting improvements to youth wellness. The progress achieved in the first year is just the start, and the collaborative’s dedication to fostering a healthier, more resilient Manchester is stronger than ever.
For more information on the collaborative and Botvin training go to https://www.amoskeaghealth.org/wellness-and-prevention-collaborative
Written by Ashley Bachert | Community Impact Project Assistant | 9/20/2024
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