During a recent government meeting, representatives from Norwalk ACTS and Triangle Community Center highlighted the critical need for ongoing support and initiatives aimed at improving the social-emotional health of youth in Norwalk.

The deputy director of Norwalk ACTS emphasized the importance of the Norwalk Youth Survey, which serves as a vital tool for understanding the mental health challenges faced by local youth. The survey revealed alarming trends, including increased rates of depression, suicidal ideation, and feelings of isolation among young people. In response, Norwalk ACTS has developed a comprehensive action plan focused on enhancing the quality of relationships between youth and adults in the community.

Since the last survey in 2021, Norwalk ACTS has organized training sessions for youth-serving adults, with participation growing significantly—from 55 attendees from 18 organizations in 2022 to 77 participants from over 30 organizations in 2023. These training sessions are designed to address the specific needs identified in the survey and are part of a broader strategy to foster supportive environments for youth.

The deputy director praised the collaboration with Norwalk Public Schools, which has been instrumental in prioritizing social-emotional health and facilitating community-wide interventions. The partnership has also helped secure additional funding to support these initiatives.

Cadence Penfani, representing Triangle Community Center, underscored the necessity of including questions about identity in the youth survey. She pointed out that students from marginalized identities face disproportionately high rates of mental health issues, aligning with national and international trends. Penfani's remarks highlighted the importance of understanding the diverse experiences of all students to better address their needs.

Both speakers called for continued commitment to the Norwalk Youth Survey and its role in shaping effective community responses to youth mental health challenges. The meeting concluded with a shared recognition of the importance of collaboration among local organizations to create a supportive environment for all young people in Norwalk.