Adolescent Health and Youth Development FY 2023 Report
Adolescent Health and Youth Development
The Adolescent Health and Youth Development (AHYD) Program, part of the Chronic Disease Prevention Section, is committed to addressing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that can contribute to chronic health conditions later in life.
Based on the Positive Youth Development (PYD) Approach recommended by the Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the AHYD program focuses on engaging youth in meaningful and constructive ways. This approach emphasizes building on young people’s strengths, fostering positive relationships, and supporting their growth and development within their communities, schools, organizations, peer groups, and families.
Aligned with DASH’s goals, the AHYD program aims to prevent HIV, STDs, and pregnancy among all youth while promoting long-term health and well-being.
By addressing ACEs and equipping young people with the tools to thrive, the AHYD program helps create a healthier future for individuals and communities across Georgia.
The AHYD program is administered by Youth Development Coordinators (YDCs) at local health districts. YDCs form critical partnerships with schools, afterschool programs, and community and faith-based organizations to foster collaboration around critical topics in adolescent health and youth development.
A portion of the AHYD work requires YDCs to implement evidence-based risk reduction strategies addressing teen pregnancy prevention. These evidence-based skill-building activities include effective communication techniques, goal setting, decision making, and the benefits of abstaining from risky behaviors.
The AHYD program aims to support adolescents to develop healthy, educated and employable lifestyles as adults. It aims to keep adolescents connected to their families and communities.
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Page last updated 1/19/2025