To be truly successful in our work, we believe we need to do more than just serve youth. We need to be partners with youth.

Since 2008, our Teen Health Now youth leadership council has drawn young people from across the state to work as true partners in adolescent health. These remarkable young people meet with policy makers, plan awareness events, inform their peers, and help us understand the current needs of North Carolina youth.

Teen Health Now has had a tremendous impact on North Carolina. Their advocacy work led to the 2009 passage of the state’s Healthy Youth Act. Because of them, now all North Carolina students will get the information they need to be safe, healthy, and responsible.

Teen Health Now Advisory Council

The Teen Health Now Advisory Council works to encourage other youth to get involved in adolescent health issues. Made up of young people in college and high school, Advisory Council members:

• Coordinate statewide events, including advocacy days and awareness events
• Write, blog, and tweet about adolescent health
• Train other youth as speakers, advocates, and peer leaders

Local Teen Health Now Councils

In 2012, Teen Health Now expanded to include ten local chapters. Through the Local Councils, young people will work to raise awareness about adolescent health needs in their own communities.

2012-13 Local Teen Health Now Councils

Cabarrus Health Alliance

Cumberland County Health Department

Excel Outreach and Community Support, Harnett County

Robeson County Health Department

Gems Leadership, Guilford and Forsyth Counties

Guilford Coalition on Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention

Rockingham County Health Department

Smart Girls Leadership Academy, Guilford County

Teen Initiative Project, Forsyth County

Thomasville City Schools

Wayne Action Teams for Community Health (WATCH)

If you are a teen looking for information on sexual health and your rights, visit our Resource page For Young People.  

Have questions about Teen Health Now? Contact School Engagement Specialist Jenny Palmer or Resource & Special Projects Manager Melinda DeJongh.