Naomi Allen
Research Mentor(s): Ashley Anderson
Mentor Department: Washtenaw Alliance for Children and Youth (WACY)
Authors: Ashley Anderson, Naomi Allen, Ali Moubarak
Session: Session 7 (4:00pm – 4: 50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 33
Abstract
The Washtenaw Alliance for Children and Youth (WACY) is a collaborative organization of youth-serving agencies, businesses, public system partners, and committed community members working together to improve the lives and wellbeing of youths in Washtenaw County. The prioritization of their wellbeing holds the trajectory of each of their futures, as well as the future of Washtenaw. In order to assess areas of improvement for the youth, WACY constructs a comprehensive infographic report for all organizations, schools, businesses, and officials to access. The report focuses on three areas: Academic and Career Readiness, Health and Safety, Social and Emotional Development. The data for children who are economically disadvantaged, disabled, LGBTQ+, and/or in racial minority groups is compared to that of their peers to address possibly discriminatory practices and unequal opportunities or support. Through collaboration with Washtenaw schools, organizations, programs, and businesses, data was collected for all these categories to address every aspect of their wellbeing. The primary databases used were Michigan School Data and the Michigan Profile for Health Youth. That data was finalized into a visual report to allow organizations and policy makers to analyze trends, such as drug abuse, homelessness, test scores, and bullying, to address successes in development and areas for improvement. This will lead to improved policies and programs for Washtenaw’s youth. The WACY Report Card works to create positive change for the youth of Washtenaw County, thus improving their education, health, and opportunities.
