Prevention and Outreach
Melanie Vehslage, MPH (she/her), Prevention Coordinator: In her position at YSB, Melanie focuses on promoting safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for youth, families, and youth workers. She came to Bloomington for school in 2007 and worked a variety of direct care settings to support adults and youth with mental health or substance use diagnoses. In these roles, she supported clients navigating the social service systems in Monroe County, aiming to ensure access to basic needs like housing and healthcare. With a goal of working more upstream in the Social-Ecological Model (SEM) and having a broader community impact, she went back for her Masters in Public Health in 2016, when she interned with BTCC's first Prevention Coordinator. After completing her degree, she worked for nearly 8 years at Monroe County Health Department in harm reduction and population health, collaborating with community partners to build a healthier Monroe County. She moved into the Prevention role in January 2025, and is excited to use her experiences across the SEM to support a resilient community for youth and those who support youth to thrive!
Leann Schwartz, she/her, Youth Prevention Specialist: Leann came to Bloomington to attend Indiana University in 2020 where she graduated recently with her Bachelors degree. Throughout the past 5 years, Leann has worked with high school youth in a mentorship program where she helped facilitate meaningful connections. In her current role, Leann hopes to use these experiences to help promote safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for youth, families, and youth workers. In her free time, Leann enjoys hiking and spending time with friends and family.
