The Mattering Movement
MyT is catalyzing a movement for youth mattering across Maine. Join us in creating communities where youth feel seen, heard, valued, and that they add value.
MyT brings the research and the resources, and you bring a unique understanding of your community’s needs and strengths. Together, we will uplift mattering as a tangible priority woven into the fabric of small towns and cities across Maine.
Only 50% of Maine youth believe they matter. Why is that important?
Youth who believe they matter are 65% less likely to consider suicide.
Youth who believe they matter are 57% less likely to experience depressive symptoms.
Youth who believe they matter are 24% less likely to use substances.
Youth facing high adversity still have good mental health if they feel they matter.
this mattering movement is fueled by youth voice.
At its core, the Mattering Movement is a statewide, cross-sector, two-generation effort that:
- Elevates youth voice through youth-led storytelling and projects that illuminate what mattering feels like in their communities.
- Supports caregivers and professionals across education, health, mental health, and youth-serving sectors with practical, evidence-informed tools to build positive environments and relationships.
- Activates communities through local Mattering Ambassadors and “Mattering Cabins,” which serve as accessible hubs for connection and shared action.
- Builds learning and sustainable change by integrating PCE and Mattering science into practice and evaluation, helping communities embed resilience strategies in sustainable ways.
introducting mattering cabins: a home for the mattering movement
Maine Cabin Masters has partnered with MyT make mattering visible in communities across Maine. The Mattering Cabin is a new way for communities to make belonging visible, nurture connection, and ensure every young person knows that they matter. These small but powerful structures are designed to spark kindness, affirm worth, and strengthen the relationships that help young people thrive.
Inspired by the spirit of community-building projects like Little Free Libraries, each little MyT Mattering Cabin serves as a sanctuary of care, resource sharing hub, part emotional well-being space, and part community connection point. These mini resource-filled cabins invite moments of reflection, gratitude, and kindness in the everyday places where we live, learn, and gather.
Each mattering cabin is as unique as the community it represents. Inside a mattering cabin, you might find:
- Notes of encouragement and gratitude left by community members (“You matter.” “Your story is still being written.” “Thank you for showing up today.”)
- Reflection or conversation cards that invite people to think about who has made them feel they matter — and how they can do the same for others.
- Mini resources and MyT prompts — quick well-being tips, grounding exercises, and QR codes linking to the Maine Mattering Movement and mental health resources.
- Youth-led creations — artwork, poems, stickers, or kindness challenges that invite participation and spark joy.
- Seasonal themes and “Mattering Missions” that encourage community engagement
Join the Maine mattering movement
Together, we’re building a Maine where every young person – and every Mainer – feels seen, valued, and needed. Because when people feel they matter, we all thrive.
When you join the Maine Mattering Movement, you become part of a growing statewide community of caring adults and youth committed to making mattering a way of life:
- Belong – stay connected through inspiring stories, trainings, and tools that help you bring mattering to your home, school, or community.
- Act – take one small action each month to show others they matter.
- Support – help the movement grow by sharing, volunteering, or donating.
Yes, I want to join the Maine Mattering Movement!
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