Talbert House Awarded Grant to Launch Greater Cincinnati Youth Mental Health Corps

CINCINNATI – Talbert House is proud to receive a grant from ServeOhio and its administration of AmeriCorps in Ohio to launch the Greater Cincinnati Youth Mental Health Corps, a new initiative focused on improving youth mental health through peer-led support. Additional support  for the program is being  provided by Hopeful Empowered Youth (HEY!) and its funders.

Launching on September 1, this initiative will train and deploy twenty four AmeriCorps Youth Peer Support Specialists at Partner Host Sites across Southwest Ohio. These young leaders will receive Youth Peer Support certification through the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, preparing them to deliver peer-to-peer support and create a career path in the mental health profession.

“With the support of ServeOhio, AmeriCorps, HEY!, and partner host sites , we’re building a network of trained young adults who are not only helping others heal but strengthening their own futures,” said Nikki Boberg, Talbert House School Based Services Director. 

Youth Peer Support Specialists will draw from their own lived experiences—whether with mental health challenges, substance use, system involvement—to offer relatable mentorship, hope, and empowerment to youth facing similar circumstances.

“Many across our region still face barriers to mental health care,” said Marina Hopkins, HEY! Cincinnati Executive Director. “This peer-led approach expands access, reduces stigma, and brings us closer to a future where all youth have an opportunity to live their healthiest lives.”

Talbert House is now seeking community partners to host Youth Peer Support Specialists. Hosts will create safe and supportive environments where youth can thrive and where peer coaches can grow professionally. For more information on becoming a host, contact Heather Low at heather.low@talberthouse.org