A panel of diverse teenagers speaks to an audience.

Teen Leadership Council

The HealthPartners Teen Leadership Council amplifies youth voices and develops the next generation of leaders

HealthPartners is committed to youth development by elevating the voice of young people within our organization and the community.

The Teen Leadership Council (TLC) is a school-year-long opportunity for high school students across the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin who are interested in health and wellbeing. The program develops the next generation of resilient leaders by amplifying youth voices and giving youth a platform to make change in their communities​.

Each program runs from August-May with biweekly, in-person meetings. As a best practice, teens receive financial incentives for their time, commitment and participation on the council.
A chart made of four boxes that say "youth voice," "experiential learning," "community connection & belonging," and "personal growth & self-discovery."

Youth-adult partnership is at the center of the TLC

At its core, the TLC is about partnership, bringing together teens and adults in collaboration and giving teens a space that amplifies their voices and perspectives. By providing a platform for teens to engage in conversations about health and equity, the program equips them with knowledge, confidence and leadership skills. Teens become advocates, not just for themselves, but for their peers, communities and future generations.

How the council makes a difference

Members engage in a wide range of work and activities, including:

  • Consulting – Sharing insights to impact real-life programs and projects
  • Attending public health workshops – Engaging with professionals to explore how different factors influence our community’s health
  • Volunteering – Giving back to the community
  • Leadership skill building – Exploring personal strengths and developing skills to grow as a leader
  • Relationship building – Connecting, collaborating and building a sense of belonging with other teens
  • Career exploration – Learning about career pathways in health and leadership fields

"The TLC is important to teens because it helps us get more perspective on issues happening in our communities. Being able to collaborate with teens from other communities, build ideas and create leadership opportunities together is an amazing and rewarding experience."
The TLC participants line up in two rows facing each other and enjoy a team building activity..

Engage teens in your work

TLC members contribute valuable lived experiences and diverse, authentic perspectives that play a crucial role in shaping community-focused efforts. Organizations can submit a request for the Teen Leadership Council to consult on a project or program where they are seeking youth perspectives.
Image of TLC teen panel discussion.

Apply to the Teen Leadership Council

Applications are currently closed for the 2025-2026 school year. Check back in spring of 2026 to apply for the next cohort.

In order to join the Teen Leadership Council, teens must:

  • Be 14-19 years old
  • Live in the Twin Cities metro, St. Croix Valley or western Wisconsin
  • Be interested in improving the health of our communities

“Programs like the TLC are important for teens because they are a stress-free space where students can take action while working with others, impact their communities, and become the best version of themselves.”

Measuring our Impact

Our Report to the Community shares what’s possible when we invest in youth leadership. The stories and successes showcased in this report highlight the incredible impact of this work. Through community projects, leadership development and real-world experiences, TLC participants gain skills that prepare them for the future while also making a tangible difference today. Their passion and creativity strengthen our communities and challenge us – as health care providers, educators, caregivers and community leaders – to do better.

Support the TLC

Your generous gift helps empower teens to build confidence, become engaged leaders and create opportunities to make a meaningful impact in their communities. To donate, visit powerup4kids.org/givenow and select “Teen Leadership Council” in the “Designation” drop-down menu.

Stay connected

Sign up here to receive the TLC newsletter from current members directly to your inbox.

Follow the TLC on Facebook and Instagram.

For more information, contact andrea.c.anderson@healthpartners.com.