Join the Teen Mental Health Advisory Council!
Are you a high school student passionate about mental health, creative storytelling, or making a difference in your community? Do you dream of a future in psychology or advocacy? Join the YMCA Teen Mental Health Advisory Council to connect with teens from across North Carolina, create powerful projects, and gain real-world experience alongside professionals and policymakers. It’s the perfect opportunity to make an impact, explore your interests, and earn service-learning hours in a fun and engaging way!
Our mission is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and expand access to mental health resources for teens.
Major Activities Include
- Participate in and host mental health and wellness trainings in your community.
- Job shadowing with mental health professionals in your community, expanding your knowledge of mental health career options
- Meet your local elected officials and speak at city council, school board, and county commissioners’ meetings on expanding access to mental health resources for teens and eradicating the stigma of mental health
- Overnight leadership retreats, including our in-person orientation in Greensboro, NC at YMCA Camp Weaver
- Create impactful social media campaigns and host our Teen Mental Health Podcast
Program Details
- Meets: 2nd & 3rd Tuesday of each month | Time: 5:30–7 p.m. (Virtual) Program (some local delegations may host 1 in-person meeting per month)
- Dates: October 2025 – May 2026
- Eligibility: NC students entering grades 9–11
- Application Deadline: September 10, 2025
- Membership Fee: $100 upon acceptance (Your Local Association or branch may cover the cost of your membership)
The YMCA Teen Mental Health Advisory Council is a statewide program designed to elevate the voices of young people in shaping the future of mental health in North Carolina. If selected, you will serve as a representative of youth in your community, working alongside a diverse team of teens from across the state.
This is a highly competitive opportunity that demands commitment, responsibility, and a genuine passion for advocacy. Participation requires consistent effort, active engagement, and a readiness to lead with purpose and integrity. Teens interested must apply before September 10, 2025. Join us and be a part of this impactful initiative to create meaningful change in your community!
For questions, contact Eric Graves or call (336) 272-2131.