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Youth organizations Out Loud Delaware and First State Youth Move ask city to partner on mental health outreach and youth leadership
Summary
Out Loud Delaware and First State Youth Move presented youth‑led mental health programs to the Wilmington committee, described statewide and local activities including town halls and a mental health summit, and requested partnership with city offices and schools to expand outreach and services.
Jalen Powell, founder and CEO of Out Loud Delaware, and youth leaders from First State Youth Move presented mental‑health and youth‑leadership work to the Wilmington City Council Health, Environmental, Aging and Disabilities Committee on May 21, 2025. The presenters described programs that center youth voice, peer support, and culturally responsive outreach in historically underserved communities.
Powell said Out Loud Delaware’s approach focuses on empowerment, engagement and education; First State Youth Move leaders described youth‑run town halls, a “My Mind Matters” series and a mental‑health summit that organizers said was more than 60% youth‑attendee. The youth leaders said their work combines peer‑led facilitation, partnerships with mental‑health professionals and training (including Youth Mental Health First Aid) and events such as “Skate to Wellness” to create low‑barrier, youth‑friendly spaces for conversations about coping, stigma and services.
Why it matters: Presenters stressed early intervention and stigma reduction. First State Youth Move members cited statistics during the presentation that roughly 50% of mental‑health conditions begin before age 14 and that about 60% of youth with mental‑health conditions do not receive services; presenters said many conditions are preventable with early supports and youth‑centered intervention.
Barriers and strategies: Presenters and committee members discussed trust and access as barriers to youth engaging with services. Powell and the youth leaders said they try to meet young people where they are — libraries, schools and community events — and use anonymous post‑event surveys and one‑on‑one conversations to shape action plans and follow‑up. They described partnerships with the Behavioral Health Consortium, local sororities and school districts and requested city help to host events, amplify outreach and connect them with Wilmington school districts and community partners.
Committee response and public comment: Council members thanked the presenters and suggested continued partnership; Councilman Owens offered council facilities and district contacts for outreach. Public commenters, including teacher Phyllis Mobley, praised the youth presenters and offered to connect the organization with Brandywine School District and Mount Pleasant High School for partnerships.
Decision and next steps: No formal council action was taken. Presenters asked for city partnerships, event support, and help connecting to schools and local government; council members signaled willingness to follow up and host events or meetings to explore collaboration.
Ending note: Organizers said they will continue recruiting and hosting events, pursue Youth Mental Health First Aid certification for board members, and seek partnerships with local government and school districts to expand peer support and early intervention programming.
