Diversifying outreach: Key practices for recruiting youth from equity-seeking communities into North American mental health advocacy movements

Abstract

North American mental health organisations often struggle to diversify community perspectives informing their programs. A lack of representation compromises advocates’ ability to serve members of equity-seeking communities. I conducted semi-structured interviews with nine youth who volunteered with a North American charity, ‘Catalyst,’ and who self-identified as Black, Indigenous, low-income, or male. I used thematic analysis to identify common motivations for participation and ways to close gaps in engagement. Catalyst-involved youth undertook advocacy to: 1) combat social injustice; 2) find like-minded peers; and 3) strengthen personal skillsets. These compelling motivations provide opportunities and strategies for recruiting under-represented youth. Adult-led organisations may wish to improve their organisations’ visibility in public spaces, host networking events, and offer professional development opportunities.