Rep. Gabe Vasquez Uplifts New Mexico’s Youth in Events Centered on Outdoor Education and Mental Health Services
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – On Thursday, April 25, 2024, U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), the youngest member of the New Mexico delegation, hosted several events showing his commitment to youth development and equitable access to the outdoors.
Vasquez hosted a Youth Outdoor Education event in Albuquerque’s South Valley. Students from Polk Middle School and representatives from Albuquerque Public Schools joined the discussion to emphasize the importance of hands-on learning experiences, particularly in the outdoors. Highlighting the investment made by the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) in outdoor learning initiatives, Vasquez discussed state and federal funding opportunities for schools to expand outdoor education programs.
This roundtable comes after the EXPLORE Act that Vasquez co-sponsored was just passed by the House of Representatives that would help communities like the South Valley develop additional green space and outdoor recreation opportunities.
“In New Mexico, there's so much to learn outside the classroom. That's why I've always been passionate about providing students with outdoor education. Outdoor education fosters a deep appreciation for climate and the environment and empowers the next generation of stewards of our lands and waters,” said Vasquez. “I have spent many summers hunting, fishing and hiking in the Gila, and I want to ensure that children today have the same opportunities to build lasting connections with nature to conserve the state we all love.”
Vasquez also hosted a Mental Health and Services Roundtable in collaboration with the Valencia Wellness Council. The roundtable convened local government officials, school leadership, church leaders and wellness organizations dedicated to supporting community and youth mental health services in rural areas. Vasquez is actively working to identify innovative strategies to address mental health challenges among New Mexico’s youth population, ensuring access to vital resources and support services.
“It’s clear that we face a historic challenge to provide adequate mental health services across the state. That's why I've spent my time listening to students, health care professionals and families about their concerns with the lack of mental health services in New Mexico’s schools and rural communities. I convened this roundtable to continue the dialogue and find real solutions,” said Vasquez. “I’m proud to support legislation that increases mental health care, and I will continue to fight for more resources for our rural areas.”
Vasquez continues to advocate for youth empowerment and environmental conservation. Notably, he recently introduced the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act with Rep. Zinke (MT-01), demonstrating his commitment to ensuring New Mexico’s public lands remain accessible for future generations. Additionally, he has advocated for mental health services in schools in his Mental Health Services for Students Act, ensuring students’ well-being remains a top priority.
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