Systems Improvement Through Youth
Systems Improvement Through Youth (SITY) is a youth advisory council within the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS). Established in 2009, SITY formalizes the role of youth voice in shaping services and improving systems that support children, youth, and families across the county.
SITY members are youth and young adults ages 14 to 23 with lived experience in child-serving systems such as child welfare, mental health, developmental supports, juvenile justice, or drug and alcohol services. SITY is a stipend-based leadership opportunity designed to elevate youth expertise and ensure their experiences directly inform DHS programs and policies.
SITY supports DHS by:
- Sharing lived experience and recommendations to strengthen youth-serving systems
- Identifying barriers young people face when accessing services
- Providing input on programs, policies, and service quality
- Supporting youth engagement and leadership across DHS initiatives
- Helping ensure services are youth-centered, trauma-informed, and equitable
Join SITY
Youth ages14 to 23 years old that are current or former recipients of services through DHS and are current Allegheny County residents can complete the SITY Member Application. Joining the SITY is a great way to use personal experience to help other youth.
Email YouthOpp@alleghenycounty.us with any questions.
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