YOUTH LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

Community Programs

Community Programs: Central Valley

The Youth Leadership Institute believes youth engagement is a vital asset in the Central Valley region’s economic and community development. With a range of urban and rural communities, rapid population growth, and a large youth presence, California’s Central Valley faces both great opportunities and great challenges. Since 2004 the organization has established a strong, visible presence as a leader in youth development for the region. 

Central Valley communities face higher youth marijuana and painkiller usage rates than the state average. Inexpensive, easily accessible, high calorie, high-fat foods contribute to Fresno County’s child obesity rates—which are the highest in the state. Central Valley programs utilize methods developed by The Center to change social norms, messaging, and access, working to create environments conducive to making healthy choices.

Learn more about what's going on in the Youth Leadership Institute's Central Valley programs by visiting the following resources:

YLIFresno on Blogspot

YLIFresno on Flickr

YLIFresno YouTube Channel