Teens for Healthy Youth celebrates 10 years

A youth-driven program focused on health advocacy and peer education is marking a decade of impact across the Lowcountry, underscoring the growing role students play in shaping conversations around substance use, mental health and community wellness.

Teens for Healthy Youth, a program of the Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth, began in 2016 as a pilot initiative at Bluffton High School. Ten years later, it has expanded into a multi-school network that includes several high schools and, more recently, middle schools across the region.

The program’s origins trace back to a 2014 town hall meeting where local students spoke candidly about challenges they and their peers faced, including access to alcohol and pressure to engage in risky behaviors. Their input helped guide the creation of a youth coalition designed to shift prevention efforts from adult-led messaging to student-driven initiatives.

Early efforts centered on peer-to-peer education, with students leading discussions and awareness campaigns focused on reducing drug and alcohol use. Members encouraged participation in national initiatives such as National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week and worked with local leaders to elevate youth voices in prevention efforts.

The program grew steadily after receiving support through a federal Drug-Free Communities grant, allowing it to expand beyond a single school. Today, Teens for Healthy Youth operates in Bluffton High School, Cross Schools, Hilton Head Christian Academy, Hilton Head Island High School and May River High School. This year, organizers introduced middle school chapters, extending the program’s reach to younger students.

Participants engage in a wide range of activities, including school announcements, community service projects, public presentations and advocacy efforts. Students have addressed issues such as vaping, substance use and mental health, and have participated in regional and statewide events focused on prevention and education.

The program’s peer-to-peer model remains central to its approach. Organizers say students are often more receptive to messages delivered by their peers, particularly on sensitive topics such as substance use, stress and decision-making. Over time, participants have developed skills in public speaking, leadership and communication.

Some students have continued their involvement beyond high school, taking on internships and advisory roles within the organization. Others have been recognized for their service through local awards and scholarships.

The program has also gained visibility within the broader community. In 2019, Teens for Healthy Youth participants were named grand co-marshals of the Bluffton Christmas Parade, reflecting their role as youth leaders and advocates.

As the program enters its second decade, organizers say the focus will include strengthening middle school programs and addressing emerging trends, including new forms of substance use such as THC-infused products.

What began as a conversation among teenagers has grown into a network of youth leaders working to influence their peers and communities, demonstrating the impact of student-led initiatives in addressing public health challenges.

Learn more at lcahealthyyouth.com or follow @lowco_thy on Instagram.