Elevating Youth Voices

Elevating Youth Voices for Health

At the PRCHN, we believe that young people are essential partners in advancing health equity. Through hands-on leadership, advocacy, and research, youth are not just the future — they are driving change today.

Youth-led School Health Advisory Committee (SHAC)

Our youth-led SHAC empowers high school students to take an active role in shaping the health and wellness policies in their schools. Through collaboration with school staff and community stakeholders, students identify health priorities and lead initiatives focused on nutrition, physical activity, mental wellness, and more.

Community-Engaged Cancer Research Program (CECRP)

The CECRP provides youth with opportunities to engage in cancer-focused research and health promotion efforts that reflect the needs and voices of their communities. Youth contribute to research design, outreach, and messaging — helping bridge science and lived experience.

Youth Health Advocacy Projects

Beyond SHAC and CECRP, PRCHN supports a range of youth-led health advocacy projects. From addressing food insecurity to promoting mental health awareness and access to care, youth teams work alongside public health professionals to develop strategies that make a difference.

Our Team

Kristina Knight, PhD

Principal Investigator

Cheryl Oates

Director of Cuyahoga County Youth Work Initiative 

Yulanda Prude

Assistant Director of Cuyahoga County Youth Work Initiative

Dr. Jamie Perryman

Research Scientist 

Contact Us!

Want to learn more about our youth engagement strategies?
Contact Dr. Kristina Knight at knk4@case.edu

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