COVINGTON, Ga. — The Youth Action Team (YAT) — a youth-led program of Newton Community Partnership (NCP) — has had a powerhouse spring, earning honors and making impact at the local, state and national levels.
In May 2025, the Newton County Board of Commissioners issued an official proclamation declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month, recognizing YAT’s leadership in mental wellness and prevention. YAT member Francisco Alvarado, a local high school student, addressed the board and the community, reminding residents that recovery can happen and help is available.
But their influence did not stop there.
This spring, YAT members were invited to the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) Provider Meeting in Augusta, Ga. Three students served on a youth panel and hosted a mini Kick the Habit experience — an interactive prevention event they designed to address relationship violence, vaping and alcohol use. These student-led efforts are part of their regular work in Newton County schools, where YAT plans and runs full-scale Kick the Habit events each spring and leads community outreach during Red Ribbon Week each fall.
National recognition followed, as Alvarado joined a national youth panel at the 2025 CADCA National Leadership Forum, showcasing Newton County’s student-driven prevention strategies to coalitions from across the country.
Newton Community Partnership (NCP) is a local nonprofit dedicated to building a healthier, more resilient community through youth empowerment, family support, and prevention education. Programs like YAT help students become leaders, changemakers, and advocates for their peers.
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