ATLANTA – Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Robyn A. Crittenden today announced the selection of 111 Georgia high school students to serve on the Department’s Youth Empowerment Series for the 2017-2018 school year.

The Youth Empowerment Series (YES) exposes high school students to issues affecting vulnerable populations in their communities and empowers them to become involved in developing solutions.

YES launched last year, with 51 students who participated in six meetups across the state. The series included roundtable discussions on topics such as public policy, social services careers, senior hunger and child welfare. Students also engaged in community service, workshops on higher education and team building activities. Several participants from the inaugural group have since returned as YES Alumni Board members, who serve as guest speakers and volunteers for upcoming meetups.

The year-long program encourages participants to commit to the Department’s vision of stronger families for a stronger Georgia, while also helping the Department garner input from young people on policies that affect vulnerable youth in Georgia.

The chosen 111 students represent communities from all four corners of the state and a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds. Through career panels, networking and participation, students in the program will gain unique exposure to careers, jobs and involvement opportunities within human services.

“DHS YES provides a unique opportunity for Georgia’s youth to be active participants in helping strengthen the children and families of our state,” Crittenden said. “Building stronger families for a stronger Georgia is something that everyone can be a part of, no matter their age.”

For more information on DHS YES and to view a list of participants, visit dhs.georgia.gov/youth-empowerment-series-yes.