Are you a young leader passionate about improving mental health outcomes for young people? The Mental Health America (MHA) Young Leaders Council (YLC) 2026-2027 is now accepting applications from outstanding young adults who are creating change at the intersection of youth mental health, employment, and financial well-being.
This prestigious leadership opportunity brings together five exceptional young leaders from across the United States to collaborate on solutions that support youth employment, financial stability, and mental wellness. Participants will receive leadership development opportunities, mentorship, national visibility, and a $2,000 stipend.
Applications are open until August 28, 2026.
About the Mental Health America Young Leaders Council
The Young Leaders Council (YLC) is a leadership initiative established by Mental Health America to support and amplify the voices of young people who are addressing gaps in mental health resources and services within their communities.
The council serves as a platform where youth leaders can collaborate, learn from experts, develop advocacy skills, and contribute to projects that elevate youth perspectives on critical mental health issues.
For the 2026-2027 cohort, the council will focus on the relationship between financial well-being, meaningful employment, and youth mental health.
Theme for the 2026-2027 Cohort
This year’s Young Leaders Council will explore how employment opportunities and financial security influence mental health among young people.
The cohort will examine challenges such as:
• Rising costs of living.
• Changes in higher education and credentialing pathways.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on entry-level jobs.
• Youth unemployment and underemployment.
• Barriers to accessing meaningful and supportive work opportunities.
Together, participants will investigate solutions, advocate for change, and develop initiatives that improve both economic and mental well-being for young adults.
Benefits of the Program
Selected participants will receive:
• A $2,000 stipend.
• Leadership and professional development opportunities.
• Mentorship from experts in mental health and youth advocacy.
• Access to Mental Health America’s national network.
• Opportunities to amplify their work and ideas nationally.
• Participation in a collaborative capstone project.
• Membership in MHA’s growing network of youth leaders and alumni.
• Travel and lodging support to attend the Mental Health America Conference in Washington, D.C.
What Will Young Leaders Council Members Do?
Over the nine-month term from September 2026 to May 2027, selected members will:
• Attend monthly 90-minute virtual meetings.
• Engage with experts and practitioners in youth mental health and employment.
• Identify and promote strategies that support youth well-being and workforce participation.
• Collaboratively design and implement a capstone project.
• Attend and speak at the Mental Health America Conference in Washington, D.C., on October 8–9, 2026.
• Share their work and insights through MHA’s national network and partner organizations.
Who Should Apply?
Mental Health America is seeking young adults who have direct experience with programs, initiatives, research, or advocacy efforts related to youth employment, financial well-being, and mental health.
Examples of relevant experience include:
• State or local initiatives that create employment pathways for young people.
• Apprenticeship and workforce development programs.
• Job-training initiatives that integrate mental health support.
• Social enterprises supporting youth reintegration and empowerment.
• Community outreach and education programs.
• Research projects focused on youth employment and mental health.
• Advisory board participation and youth leadership roles.
Applicants do not need to have extensive professional experience. Individuals with lived experience, community involvement, and innovative ideas are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
• Be between 18 and 25 years old.
• Demonstrate leadership experience related to youth mental health, employment, or financial well-being.
• Be available to participate in monthly virtual meetings from September 2026 through May 2027.
• Be willing to contribute to a collaborative capstone project.
• Be interested in advancing solutions that improve youth mental health and economic opportunity.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit responses addressing the following questions:
• Why are new approaches to employment and work important for youth mental health?
• What programs, projects, or initiatives have you participated in or led that connect employment and youth mental health?
• What are your future goals for your work, initiative, or program?
Applications may be submitted as:
• Written responses (250–500 words total).
• Video responses (up to five minutes).
Applicants may also submit supporting materials such as:
• Blogs.
• Research papers.
• Websites.
• News articles.
• Social media content.
• Project portfolios.
Learn more and apply HERE.
Conclusion
The Mental Health America Young Leaders Council 2026-2027 offers an exciting opportunity for young changemakers to contribute to one of the most pressing issues facing today’s generation: the connection between mental health, employment, and financial well-being. Through mentorship, collaboration, advocacy, and national exposure, participants will help shape innovative solutions while strengthening their own leadership journey. If you are ready to elevate your impact and join a network of inspiring youth leaders, submit your application before August 28, 2026.
Discover more opportunities like this on the OFY Webpage.
