About AHWG

History

The Adolescent Health Working Group (AHWG) was formed in 1996 by a group of adolescent health providers and advocates concerned about the lack of age-appropriate health services for young people in the city of San Francisco.

Vision

AHWG’s vision is to ensure that all youth and young adults have unimpeded access to high quality, culturally competent, youth friendly health services.

Mission

AHWG’s mission is to support and strengthen the network of providers working to improve adolescent health.

Core Functions

• Develop tools and trainings that increase providers’ capacity to effectively serve youth.
• Convene stakeholders and coordinate linkages across systems to improve information sharing, networking, and referrals for youth services.
• Advocate for policies that increase access to health insurance and comprehensive care.

Staff

AHWG is made up of a small staff and many dedicated interns. Founder, Dr. Janet Shalwitz serves as Senior Advisor. AHWG is a project of the Tides Center.

Steering Committee

AHWG is guided by a Steering Committee of local adolescent health providers and advocates from city departments, private agencies, and community based organizations.

Network

Over 300 adolescent health providers, advocates, and policy makers are a part of the AHWG Network.