On October 11-12, teens from across North Carolina came together at YMCA of Greensboro Camp Weaver to launch the YMCA’s inaugural NC State Teen Mental Health Advisory Council (TMAC).
The council is comprised of 31 high school students with a clear mission: to foster a supportive community where teens thrive mentally, emotionally and socially. Through collaboration, advocacy and education, they aim to build a foundation that promotes mental wellbeing, resilience and inclusivity for all teens in North Carolina.
Eric Graves, the association teen director for the YMCA of Greensboro, developed the plans for the council in partnership with Carrie Watkins, MSW, LCSWA, a counselor at Family Solutions, as part of North Carolina YMCAs’ work to improve teens’ mental well-being. In 2023, the NC Alliance of YMCAs was awarded funds from the state legislature for YMCAs to launch or expand teen programs that incorporate resilience-building skills and strategies to support teens’ well-being and to normalize conversations around mental health. YMCAs have developed a variety of approaches, programs and events for teens as a result.
“This statewide council represents a significant step forward in our mission to prioritize youth mental health,” said Graves in a press release. “The idea grew from a local teen mental health council we formed last year at the Greensboro Y as part of our work to support teen mental health. We saw the impact of creating space for teens to share their experiences, support one another and advocate at the local level for more mental health support—and we knew we had to expand this work statewide.”
Further Details
TMAC, comprised of 9th through 12th graders, serves as a platform for teens to connect, learn and grow as advocates — equipping them with leadership development opportunities and the knowledge and skills to reduce stigma, promote mental wellness in their schools and communities.
The Greensboro Y hosted the council’s first official gathering, which included team-building activities at the camp’s low ropes course, education and planning for the year ahead. The teens will elect their peers in leadership roles and form a marketing committee and a service committee. The TMAC will meet virtually twice a month and in person again in May 2026 when the teens bring their policy recommendations to their state legislators, and they will plan local trainings and events as part of their charter.
“Programs like this make you remember that you’re still a kid, and I mean that is the most positive way. This weekend I felt free from judgment and like I was with people that really care about me,” said Shane Grafton, a 10th grader serving on the council.
Carrie Watkins, MSW, LCSWA, a counselor at Family Solutions of the Triad, serves as an advisor to the group and will provide the teens with mental health education and connections to local resources in their own communities.
“At the Y, we’re committed to ensuring that young people not only feel supported but also empowered to lead,” said Michele McKinley, the director of communications and grant administration for the NC Alliance of YMCAs. “Mental health is a critical challenge teens are navigating, and we believe they should be engaged in solutions. By creating space for them to connect, shape the conversation and advocate for what they need in their schools and communities, we’re helping to improve mental well-being for all teens in North Carolina.”
