STRENGTHENING SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY NETWORKS FOR AT-RISK BLACK AND HISPANIC YOUTH

At the request of the Granville-Vance County Commissioners, a project team was formed to address Social and Community Context, a Social Determinant of Health (SDOH). The team aimed to improve community and social support for Black and Hispanic youth in Granville and Vance Counties who have experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). The proposal includes an SDOH analysis, contextual analysis, and recommendations for enhancing support. ACEs, which include abuse, neglect, and aspects of household dysfunction, are linked to long-term health issues like depression, anxiety, and chronic diseases. The 2021 Community Health Assessment highlighted the need for recreational activities and mental health support. Recommendations include implementing the Notice.Talk.Act program in schools, forming a Community Collaborative Council (CCC) using Experience-Based Co-Design (EBCD), and addressing systemic issues like poverty and limited mental health services. These initiatives aim to provide comprehensive support and improve health outcomes for at-risk youth.