Building Healthy Futures for Youth 2026: Yuma Community Creates Space for Youth Mental Wellness

Youth at Building Healthy Future for Youth on April 18, 2026. Yuma, AZ

On April 18, Rural Arizona Engagement hosted its Building Healthy Futures for Youth Mental Health Forum at Arizona Western College’s main campus in Yuma. The event brought together youth, families, educators and mental health professionals for a day full of learning and community-driven conversation around youth mental wellness.

This forum was designed to increase awareness and reduce stigma around mental health. The event provided attendees with tools and insights from professionals and youth, creating a judgment-free space for conversations. Spaces like these are especially needed in rural communities like Yuma, where access to resources is limited. 

The day began with a community resource fair where attendees got the chance to connect with local organizations offering supportive resources. Community partners included S.M.I.L.E, Cactus Heart Counseling, Dr. Destiny Inspires, Horizon Health and Wellness, Art of Intelligent Minds, Onvida Behavioral Health Center, Campesinos Sin Fronteras, One N Ten, FLORECER, Yuma County Public Health Services, Arizona's Children Association, Rural Arizona Action, AWC & NAU Yuma Psychology Clubs and HOPE Incorporated. 

Following the resource fair, the program officially kicked off with a panel discussion featuring both youth and adults. Panelists shared personal insights and professional perspectives on mental health. The panel included Isa Tydingco, Juan Daniel Cordova, Anna Cordova, Alysa Casas (Clinical Counselor), Claudia M. Lara (Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist) and Ulises Torres (Licensed Social Worker), and was moderated by Arizona Western College students Lizeth Ocano and Melanie Ruiz Lopez.

Attendees then participated in breakout sessions tailored to different audiences. Youth engaged in a session led by Sarah J. Chavez, LPCC, titled “What Are Mental Health Issues, and How Do They Show Up?” while adults participated in a similar session facilitated by Alex Valenzuela, LCSW and Adult Clinical Director at Regional Center for Border Health, Inc.

After reconvening for lunch, participants came together for a final joint session, “Recognizing Signs of Mental Health Issues & Developing Healthy Habits for Mental Well-being,” facilitated by Patricia Martinez, LPC and owner of Mind Body Counseling Center. The session focused on strategies to support mental wellness across all ages. 

Youth and Adult sessions led by Sarah J Chavez and Alex Valenzuela

The forum concluded with a calming, reflective experience led by Francisca Diener, where attendees participated in a guided meditation accompanied by a live sound bath. This experience offered a moment of rest and grounding to close out the day. 

With strong community turnout, meaningful conversations and participation throughout the day, Building Healthy Futures for Youth 2026 in Yuma was a success! This event highlighted the importance of investing in mental health awareness and resources for rural communities.

Building Healthy Futures for Youth is coming soon to Maricopa in Pinal County. To stay updated on upcoming forums and future dates, visit raze.org/foryouth.