Welcome to Shifa (Wellness) for the Youth! You may be familiar with our program by a similar name: Shifa for Today that is focused on training community members to become certified Peer Specialists that serve our community. Shifa for Youth mirrors the mission of Shifa for Today with a special focus on creating a safe space and adequate training for youth.

Shifa for Youth is a proud product of the City of Sacramento Youth Development Plan Funding (SYDPF) Grant. This program will focus on recruiting youth ages 16-30 to participate in a variety of training that will not only add value to their resume, but will teach youth the core of what mental health means and how to be an advocate for others in their community. They will get direct one-on-one experience providing peer support and developing wellness workshops for their peers.

Our Shifa for Youth Program creates an opportunity for youth and young adults to learn the value of peer work and what it means to support other youth as a peer. They will learn how to be an active listener and guide struggling youth to find a better quality of life. Youth who participate in this program will have the opportunity to have their voices heard and offer input for solutions regarding the needs of the youth in our community.

Here a just a couple 0f the training programs that we offer as part of this Program:

• State Certified Peer Specialist Training (ages 18+):  This training teaches youth and adults how to support other youth and adults.
• Shifa for Today Training:  Using Peer Specialist skills and learn how to support our community through learning and understanding general Islamic values, cultural practices, and trauma-informed care as well as how to support refugees.
• Youth Leadership Training
• Other engagement activities with other youth

We ask that youth commit to participating in the program for a two-year period. During this time, participants will receive stipends for their dedication to complete the training and then use their skills to support others in the community.

It is well known that youth don’t often get a platform to discuss their needs in the community. This program is meant to give them the chance to get training on the importance of mental health and how to support other peers who are struggling. They also learn how become an activist for improving wellness and positive mental health for all Muslim youth.

Join Us Today! Email our Program Coordinator at christina.aguilar@mas-ssf.org for more information.