A Safe Space for Youth to Grow, Heal, and Lead
Our Mission: Healthy 2 Connections Voice Up Youth Group and its Youth Council empower young individuals through training in Independent Living skills, self-advocacy, leadership development, civic responsibility, and hands-on community engagement. We provide a place of belonging and a platform to Voice Up!—fostering youth-led change and meaningful participation.
- Create a safe, inclusive space for youth to feel seen, heard, and valued
- Promote leadership and self-expression through the Voice Up! initiative
- Cultivate civic engagement and community impact
- Build a Buddy System to strengthen peer support and mentorship
Youth Council Objective: Composed of youth from diverse backgrounds, the Council serves as a guiding voice in the community. Through the Buddy System, members lead skill-building workshops and leadership training to promote active, hands-on learning and community improvement
- Purpose Driven Action
Our Mission Behind Voice Up
Youth are often unheard in the systems that shape them. Voice Up was created to change that. We believe every young person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported as they grow into their full potential. Our goal is to help young people recognize their worth, understand their emotional needs, and walk forward with clarity and confidence.
Leadership Team
Shonee Agnew Youth Group Coordinator
Mentor, guide, and advocate for youth development through neuroscience education. Inspired by the legacy of my beloved brother, Larry E. Agnew, I lead the L.E.A. Brain Lab—Listen, Educate, and bring Awareness.
Zhane’ Andrews Assistant Youth Group Leader
Supports group activities, mentoring, and program management. Leads outreach and community engagement to promote youth programs.
Erika Bell
Adult Advisor
Business Education Programming Advisor, Youth Development, S.T.E.A.M Program, Rolling Video Games, Summer Camps, Youth Entrepreneurship. Provides guidance and support to Youth Council officers, ensuring alignment with Healthy 2 Connections’ mission.
Youth Council Officers
Sha’Niyah Mills
President
Plans and facilitates activities, manages logistics, collaborates with parents and stakeholders, and leads Buddy System.
Amaria Agnew Vice President
Supports the President, assists with planning, fosters a positive environment, leads recruitment and mentorship
Jelah Drones
Secretary
Records and maintains meeting minutes, assists with administrative duties.
Brooklyn Hayes
Communication Officer
Manages social media and public platforms and oversees internal and external communications.
TBD
Event Coordinator
Collaboratively plans and executes youth-led events and initiatives.
The Voice Up Experience — 4 Key Steps
Step - 01
Connect
We meet youth where they are—offering safe spaces in schools, community centers, and shelters to build trust and connection.
Step - 02
Empower
Participants engage in workshops, group discussions, and mentorship that promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, and decision-making skills.
Step - 03
Express
Through art, music, writing, and storytelling, youth explore healthy ways to express thoughts and emotions.
Step - 04
Grow
As confidence and resilience increase, youth leave the program better equipped to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
The program is designed for youth ages 12–21, especially those in underserved communities or experiencing challenges related to mental health, emotional well-being, or substance abuse.
Voice Up can be delivered in schools, after-school programs, community centers, youth shelters, and faith-based organizations. We work with partners to bring the program directly to where it’s needed most.
Most of our programs are grant-funded or supported by community partners, making them free or low-cost for participants. Please contact us for specific availability in your area.
Voice Up sessions are facilitated by trained professionals, including certified mental health coaches, recovery specialists, and trusted community mentors with experience in youth development and trauma-informed care.
There's a role for you in uplifting the next generation.
