The Youth Empowerment Taskforce was formed in 2023 to address the noticeable need to provide information regarding youth services and events through an easily accessible tool/guide for youth and families.
Mission
The Youth Empowerment Taskforce (YET) is a part of the Clark County Health Improvement Plan Coalitions. In collaboration with community partners, we exist to advance the safe and healthy development of Clark County youth and families through strategic planning and support.
Members
Alyse Buirch, Clark County Partners in Prevention
Gina Burke, Family and Children First Council
Meredith Carter, Clark County Partners in Prevention
Kristen Collier, Wittenberg University
Ashley Cullers, NAMI Clark, Greene & Madison Counties
Natalie Driscoll, United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties
Abby Gerstenzang, Springfield Promise Neighborhood
Ron Gordon, Springfield City School District
Jacqueline James, Nehemiah Foundation
Kali Lawrence, Springfield Promise Neighborhood
Carey McKee, Clark County Partners in Prevention
Maggie Reuber, Clark County Combined Health District
Christina Steffanni, Springfield-Clark CTC
Natalie Taylor, Clark County Juvenile Detention Center
Kaitlyn Tyler, Greater Springfield Partnership
Mary Vonderhaar, Clark State College
Sarah Webb, Clark County Public Library
Want to learn more about partnerships, programs, and upcoming opportunities?
Reach out with questions, ideas, or to get involved:
1 |
Provide and promote resources for youth and families in our community |
| The Youth & Family Resource Guide was first launched September 2024. | |
| Youth Providers Can . . . | |
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| Families Can . . . | |
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2 |
Share information, offer professional development opportunities, and create opportunities for collaboration |
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The Youth Empowerment Taskforce meets monthly to discuss progress and next steps. Additionally, local organizations are invited to attend semiannual NETwork with YET luncheons. The last event took place on November 20, 2025. The next is expected to occur in the spring. |
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3 |
Serve in an advisory capacity to organizations involved in youth-and-family-related initiatives |
| If you would like the support of YET for your organization, please reach out to yetspringfield@gmail.com. | |
4 |
Review and collect data related to youth and families |
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The Youth Empowerment Taskforce received feedback from 40 organizations supporting youth and families in Clark County. |
This LibGuide was created by Clark County Public Library in collaboration with the Youth Empowerment Taskforce (YET).
