Benzie Area Youth Initiative (BAY)
The Benzie Area Youth Initiative is a community coalition dedicated to improving the lives of young people in Benzie County through collaborative prevention efforts.
History
Five years ago, the Benzie County Sheriff, Ted Schendel, began witnessing an alarming amount of substance abuse among Benzie County youth and formed a coalition to address the issue.
In 2019, the Communities that Care Survey found that 80% of Benzie County 12th graders report alcohol use and 56% of Benzie County 12th graders report marjuana use. The risk factors identified by youth included: low perceived risk of drug use, depressive symptoms, family conflicts, and a low commitment to school.
Today, the BAY Initiative works to support all youth to be healthy, happy, and grow up to meet their full potential.
Contact
Reach out to the Benzie Human Services Collaborative Body to learn more today!
Volunteer
The BAY Initiative is not currently seeking volunteers. The project is proudly supported by unpaid, passionate professionals. To learn more about the Initiative and how you can support, contact the BAY Initiative Sarah May at benziehsc@gmail.com
Support
The BAY Initiative is supported through blended funding from the Northern Michigan Regional Entity (NMRE), youth endowment grants, and collaborative partner support across the 21 counties of Northern Michigan.
Membership
The BAY Initiative is a comprised of a diverse group of members representing the following groups:
Youth
Parents
Businesses
Education
Law Enforcement
Government
Grow Benzie
Advocates for Benzie County
Advocates for Manistee County