System Improvement Through Youth (SITY)
Youth Development Project
The DHS Youth Development Project, established in 2009, formalizes the role of youth in the DHS Improving Outcomes for Children and Families Initiative. The Project endorses DHS’ commitment to involving all stakeholders in services planning and to improving the lives of the children, youth and families who receive services. The Youth Advisory Council, later renamed System Improvement Through Youth, or SITY (pronounced "city"), is a fundamental part of the Project.
System Improvement Through Youth (formerly the Youth Advisory Council)
Established in 2009, the DHS System Improvement Through Youth, or SITY is comprised of 14 individuals, ages 16-24 years, who are active in or alumni of DHS child-serving systems including: child welfare, mental health, mental retardation/ developmental disabilities, juvenile justice, and drug and alcohol. SITY Coordinator is also an alumnus of DHS child-serving systems.
Meeting Schedule - SITY
Members of SITY
- Contribute to the Improving Outcomes process by sharing their insights about their experiences as recipients of services through DHS
- Engage in a mutually respectful give-and-take with service providers, policy-makers and other youth advocacy groups active at the county, state and national levels to strengthen the overall system of supports and services for youth in the wider community
- Influence the lives of community youth as well through a peer mentoring program that establishes a peer support system, promotes personal development, and educates youth about the value of having their voices heard
- Engage in candid, culturally competent and efficient exchange of ideas with DHS senior management and direct service staff through representatives from various DHS service areas
- Learn the value of youth/professional cooperation in decision-making and long-range planning as regards to child- and family-serving systems by interacting with professionals in the field
- Be assisted to develop leadership skills as advocates and system advisors, be provided with positive experiences of social service careers and policymaking, and
- Be encouraged in their professional development.
SITY Coordinator
- Established council selection protocol, length-of-term and participation guidelines with DHS support and guidance
- Provides overall leadership and organizational development to SITY
- Researches established methods of enhancing youth skills in team building, communication, advocacy, conflict resolution, self-efficacy and leadership
- Selects appropriate youth skills development models to implement, and
- Facilitates the council’s interaction with peer advocacy groups, as well as their participation in youth conferences, to provide the opportunity to expand both council members’ knowledge and effectiveness through collaboration with other youth.
Apply to Join SITY
You are eligible to be a member of SITY if you are
- 14 - 25 years old,
- Live in Allegheny County, and
- Currently or previously received services from DHS
Details and 
Application - print and send application to:
Amanda Hirsh
Department of Human Services
One Smithfield Street, 4th Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
SITY Handbook