Teens ages 14–19 have an opportunity to help shape health programs and policies for young people across the state, and get paid for sharing their ideas and feedback. The New York State Department of Health Youth Advisory Group (YAG) is looking for young people who are interested in public health and want to make sure the experiences and perspectives of youth are represented in statewide efforts around adolescent health.
Youth Advisory Group members will have opportunities to share their experiences and ideas about issues affecting young people and provide feedback that can help inform adolescent health services in New York State.
The 2026–2027 commitment includes:
- 9 virtual meetings
- Additional trainings, workshops and opportunities to provide feedback throughout the year
- 6 local in-person meetings with other youth advisory group members in your region
- 2 in-person meetings in Albany, New York
- Compensation for your ideas and feedback
Travel, lodging and meals will be provided for the two Albany meetings for the participating teen and a parent or guardian.
Who can apply?
The Youth Advisory Group is seeking young leaders ages 14–19 from different backgrounds and communities across New York State. For the Metropolitan Area recruitment region, eligible counties include the Bronx, Brooklyn (Kings County), Manhattan (New York County), Queens, Staten Island (Richmond County), Nassau, Suffolk, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester.
The organizers are looking for a group that reflects the diversity of New York’s young people and strongly encourage teens with a wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.
Bronx teens interested in public health, youth advocacy, leadership or making sure young people’s experiences are represented in decisions that affect them have a chance to participate directly in a statewide advisory group.
Applications are due September 27
Spots are limited, and applications for the 2026–2027 Youth Advisory Group are due by September 27, 2026. Apply here.