HelpTeen Volunteers
Teen Volunteers
We believe in the power of peers. That’s why our programs are run by dedicated, trained volunteers who have lived experience with mental health challenges.
Opportunities
Youth Council Application (Ages 14–18)
Develop your leadership! If you’re passionate about mental health, join this teen-led council to share your perspective and take action to raise mental health awareness.
The Youth Council is a group of teens who are passionate about mental health and want to take action in their communities. Members help plan, promote, and volunteer at events like fundraisers, social events, and advocacy campaigns.
The Youth Council is also a platform for youth to share their perspectives on what young people need to support their mental well-being.
NAMI-NYC Youth Advocacy Ambassador Application
The NAMI-NYC Youth Advocacy Ambassador program provides teens (ages 14-18) impacted by mental illness with the skills and training needed to advocate for change in their communities. Our program elevates the lived experience of teens when supporting policies and initiatives that impact them, their families, and their mental health.
Please note that our program only considers applicants who reside in one of NYC’s five boroughs and are between 14-18 years old.
Youth Ambassador Expectations
With the assistance of NAMI-NYC staff, our Youth Ambassadors are expected to do the following:
- Complete the NAMI-NYC Youth Ambassador Training and additional workshops as needed
- Use our toolkit to conduct a community needs assessment in your school
- Attend regular Youth Ambassador meetings
- Subscribe to the electronic NAMI-NYC Youth Advocacy Newsletter
- Participate in 3 additional activities: Contact your representatives, attend rallies and other advocacy events, speak at school board meetings, etc.
Youth who complete the NAMI-NYC Youth Ambassador Training will receive a certificate of completion. Youth Ambassadors who successfully participate in 3 actions will receive a letter of verification detailing their participation in the program.