Advocacy
At the Mental Health Transformation Alliance (MHTA), advocacy is not something we do for families, youth and self advocates — it is something we do with them. Families, youth, and those with lived experience lead our work, ensuring that decisions are shaped by the people most impacted. Our goal is straightforward: to amplify authentic voices and establish systems that genuinely support healing, hope, and transformation.
Policy & Legislative Priorities
We advocate for policies that reflect the real needs of families, youth, and communities. Current priorities include:
- Protecting access to Medicaid and vital mental health services for children and families
- Expanding certification and funding for Parent and Youth Peer Support Specialists with lived experience
- Ensuring SNAP and other resources support whole families, not just individuals
- Promoting trauma-informed, equitable practices in schools, child welfare, and juvenile justice
Why it matters: Policies directly affect how families can care for their children, how youth access support, and how those with lived experience can lead change.
Action Alerts & Get Involved
We believe that every voice matters. Families, youth, and community members can take action by:
- Speaking Out: Contact your legislator using our sample letters, emails, and talking points.
- Staying Informed: Sign up for advocacy alerts so you know when your voice is needed most.
- Joining the Movement: Volunteer your time, share your story, or represent families and youth in leadership roles.
Family, Youth, and Lived Experience Voice
We know that lived experience is expertise. That’s why we:
- Lift Up Stories: Share real stories from families, youth, and caregivers to show how policies impact lives.
- Grow Leadership: Offer pathways for families and youth to join advisory councils and leadership trainings.
- Honor Every Voice: Create safe spaces for families, caregivers, and youth to be heard and respected as partners, not just participants.
Take Action now
NC Medicaid Family Experience Survey
People across North Carolina are experiencing changes with Medicaid, and your voice matters. Whether you use Medicaid or care for someone who does, sharing your story helps highlight what’s working, what’s not, and how these changes impact your community.
NC Family Voices Are Needed!
CaroNova, along with Ann Rodriguez, Stacy Morgan, and Diane Coffey, is hosting virtual Family Design Focus Groups for family members of youth who have experienced mental health challenges.
We want to hear from families about their experiences and ideas around connecting children and youth to school-based mental wellness supports. Your voic
CaroNova, along with Ann Rodriguez, Stacy Morgan, and Diane Coffey, is hosting virtual Family Design Focus Groups for family members of youth who have experienced mental health challenges.
We want to hear from families about their experiences and ideas around connecting children and youth to school-based mental wellness supports. Your voice can help shape meaningful, family-informed supports for youth and schools.
Choose one virtual session:
• Thursday, May 21 | 7:00–8:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 23 | 7:00–8:00 p.m.
• Saturday, June 27 | 9:00–10:00 a.m.
Participation includes brief pre-work, attending a 1-hour virtual session, and completing a post-session survey. Participants will receive a $25 virtual Amazon gift card.
See the flyer for additional information and registration details, or register here:
https://app.smartsheet.com/.../019df97b67f67ec4ba9d2d640b...
Please share with families, caregivers, and others who may be interested!
This section will soon feature powerful resources to help families, youth, and those with lived experience speak out and create meaningful change.
This section will soon feature powerful resources to help families, youth, and those with lived experience speak out and create meaningful change.
This section will soon feature powerful resources to help families, youth, and those with lived experience speak out and create meaningful change.
This section will soon feature powerful resources to help families, youth, and those with lived experience speak out and create meaningful change.