Project Overview

Build a pipeline of masters of social work student interns from Indiana University and University of Southern Indiana working for Youth First in Uplands schools and bring needed licensed mental health professionals to the region. Youth First is implementing responsive, outcomes-guided model of mental health prevention and early intervention for youth. Social workers delivery broad educational presentations, small group sessions, and establish a no-fee caseload for high-needs students. READI funds will go to fully funding four paid internships- 2 MSW students from Indiana University and 2 from University of Southern IN. READI funds will also fund salaries and expenses for 10.3 FTE social workers and clinical supervisors serving the Uplands. Over 8,000 youths will continue to have access to free mental health support. The project has community buy-in from several Uplands schools- Barr-Reeve, North Daviess, Washington Community, Washington Catholic, Holy Trinity, Mitchell, Loogootee, Orleans, Paoli, and Springs Valley. Youth First works to both provide students with mental health care while also attracting and retaining social work employees to the region. The project will start as soon as possible and be completed December 31, 2024.