Parent & Youth CHWs
We connect public health and public education for healthy and safe families, schools, and communities. Since 2013, CoNECT has been training and deploying parent and student CHWs in Buffalo Public Schools and around the city — with a belief that those closest to the problems are closest to the solutions.
Training & Development
Each summer, BPS parents and high school students complete an intensive 4-day, 28-hour CHW core competencies training — building knowledge, skills, and relationships for community work.
Family & Public Advocacy
We believe "nothing about us without us is for us." Parent and youth CHWs accompany families through service navigation, school conferences, suspension hearings, and community change campaigns.
Learn more about the School Health and Wellness Collaborative
Service Learning
- Parents and students join School Wellness Teams in their schools
- Youth CHWs supported as mentors in partnership with International School #45
- Field trips — seasonal hikes at Tifft Nature Preserve, kayaking at Beaver Island, visits to the Underground Railroad Museum
- Outreach events, community cleanups, food giveaways, and more
Advocacy Highlights
- "Solutions not Suspensions" campaign — addressing high suspension rates in Buffalo Public Schools
- Working with BPS Food Service to implement salad bars, Farm to School program, and culturally responsive menu items