What is the Youth Community Advisory Board (YCAB)?

The purpose of a community advisory board (CAB) is to seek input from community representatives on the research and work being done at The Fenway Institute. The YCAB is unique because its membership consists specifically of youth and young adults who help advise Fenway on issues that affect youth at risk for, or infected with, HIV, as well as on other public health issues related to research, such as mental health and substance use.

What does the YCAB do?

YCAB members attend a retreat to get basic training on research, LGBTQ public health issues and inequities, and community advisory boards. Once on the YCAB, members provide input to Fenway research staff and investigators on study design, protocols, enrollment, recruitment efforts and community education. Members also participate in planning community events and group enrichment activities. YCAB members have the opportunity to develop leadership skills and may even represent Fenway at national meetings or forums.  The projects that the YCAB can work on range from biomedical HIV intervention and prevention studies, to epidemiological and behavioral studies happening at The Fenway Institute.

Who is on the YCAB?

Youth ages 12-29 who are interested in representing community perspectives are welcome to volunteer as Youth Community Advisory Board members. The YCAB strives to build and maintain a diverse membership; therefore, Boston-area residents of all races and ethnicities, gender identities and sexual orientations, and HIV statuses are welcome. You do not need to have any prior experience serving on a CAB to get involved. We will provide training and education so that you will become a valued member of the community advisory board.

How do I get involved?

YCAB meetings are held monthly. Training retreats are held 3 times per year, but you will be brought up to speed if you miss the training and still want to get involved! Those interested in attending meetings or joining the YCAB are encouraged to contact youthcab@fenwayhealth.org or fill out this form.

We are always looking for young people to participate in HIV Research

If you would like more information, call 617.927.6450.