Collaborative Action Network

Well-being & Mental Health

Outcome Area: 

Overview:

The Well-being & Mental Health Collaborative Action Network(CAN) is focused on building a robust, supportive environment for youth in East King County by improving mental health services, addressing systemic challenges, and ensuring equitable access to resources. This CAN provides a space for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community-driven solutions for mental health challenges.

What Does This Collaborative Action Network (CAN) Do?

• Connects mental health professionals, educators, community leaders, and youth to address challenges in mental well-being.

• Focuses on removing barriers to mental health care and improving accessibility for underserved communities.

• Designs and implements strategies that promote resilience, emotional well-being, and healthy coping mechanisms.

• Works on expanding community awareness and reducing stigma around mental health.

How Will This CAN Improve Outcomes?

This CAN works to ensure that mental health is treated as a priority in the region, especially for youth. The collaborative approach leads to innovative strategies that increase access to services, improve emotional well-being, and reduce the impact of mental health issues on the community.

Core Values

• Equity: The CAN is deeply committed to equity, ensuring that mental health services and interventions are accessible to all youth, particularly those who are furthest from justice, such as youth of color, LGBTQ+ youth, and low-income populations.

• Collaboration: The group works with a diverse range of partners—including schools, healthcare providers, social services, and families—to build a network of support that specifically addresses the needs of underserved youth. 

• Compassion and Justice: The CAN prioritizes a trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach that respects the unique struggles of marginalized youth while actively challenging the systemic inequities they face. 

• Prevention and Early Intervention: The group focuses on proactive, preventive approaches to mental health, recognizing that early intervention can help reduce disparities and prevent crises, particularly for youth experiencing compounded trauma and inequities. 

• Youth Voice and Leadership: The CAN ensures that youth, particularly those furthest from justice, are central to the decision-making process. Their voices, experiences, and leadership help shape strategies and solutions to achieve equitable outcomes. 

Who Can Join?

This CAN is open to mental health professionals, educators, caregivers, and anyone passionate about supporting youth mental well-being. Whether you’re experienced in the field or just eager to learn and contribute, your voice is important.

Participating Partners

• Youth Eastside Services (YES)

• Bellevue School District

• Ballmer 

• Africans on the Eastside

• Peony Joy Coaching

• Community Center for Education Results (CCER) 

• University of Washington Center for Child & Family Well-being (UW CCFW)

• PEPS