Kinston Teens
Young people changing our community!
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Peer Wellness Leaders

We are building Youth Leaders for a Healthier Community!

The Peer Wellness Leaders Program is a summer leadership and mental wellness initiative created by Kinston Teens for young people ages 14 to 18. The program equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support mental wellness among their peers while gaining real leadership experience through service and youth-led projects.

Through this opportunity, participants move from learners to leaders—receiving professional training, serving their community, and helping create spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and connected.

  • The Peer Wellness Leaders Program is designed around three phases:

    • Learn

      Participants begin the summer by completing Teen Mental Health First Aid training in partnership with Trillium. This nationally recognized training helps young people understand how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges, provide initial support, and connect peers to trusted resources.

      Participants also receive an introduction to Kinston Teens, the goals of the program, and grounding practices that build inner resilience.  

      Apply

      After training, participants become Peer Wellness Leaders and complete at least 12 hours of service-learning through Kinston Teens programs and events.

      Service opportunities may include:

      • Supporting mental health check-ins and safe spaces at events

      • Assisting with youth discussions and peer engagement activities

      • Leading short wellness or grounding exercises

      • Helping create welcoming and supportive environments for young people

      This phase helps participants practice leadership, build confidence, and turn learning into action.  

      Lead

      Participants will then work in teams to design and complete a youth-led community project focused on wellness.

      Project options may include:

      Youth Voice & Engagement Track

      • Planning and facilitating a YouthSpeak event focused on mental wellness

      • Leading peer discussions, storytelling, and reflection spaces

      • Hosting interactive workshops or youth-centered conversations

      Community Wellness Project Track

      • Creating a mural that promotes positivity and social-emotional well-being

      • Building a bench or reflection space in the neighborhood

      • Creating a sensory or calming area at the East Kinston Neighborhood Hub

      • Supporting the Act Now Butterfly Garden or another healing-centered community project

      • Assisting with a youth-led environmental or resilience initiative

      These projects are designed to leave a visible and meaningful impact in the community. 

  • Peer Wellness Leaders will receive:

    • Teen Mental Health First Aid certification

    • A $450 stipend for successful completion of the program

    • Hands-on leadership and service experience

    • Opportunities to lead real community initiatives

    • Connections with mentors, peers, and community leaders

    • Documented service hours for college and scholarship applications

  • 2026 Training Dates

    The initial training cohort will take place in June 2026.

    Dates:

    • June 22

    • June 24

    • June 26

    Additional meeting times, service opportunities, and project planning sessions will be shared with selected participants.  

    Students interested in joining the Peer Wellness Leaders Program must attend a required informational session before applying.

    Applications will be accepted through June 5, 2026. Please click here or use the application below to apply.

Mental wellness grows through connection, belonging, leadership, and support. The Peer Wellness Leaders Program invests in young people as part of the solution—helping them care for themselves, support others, and strengthen the future of Kinston.