Youth Policy Accelerator applications are now open
Mental Health America’s Youth Policy Accelerator is a youth leadership program that ensures that the priorities and voices of young people are at the forefront of national mental health policy discussions. The 2026 YPA will equip five outstanding young adults with the skills, relationships, and experience to advance youth peer support policy.
We’re excited to launch this year’s YPA, focused on state youth peer support policy.
The all-virtual YPA will take place from July 2026 to March 2027. In addition to receiving a $3,000 stipend, YPA members will:
- Learn and apply skills: Gain valuable experience working on mental health policy, research, and communications. This includes public speaking, agenda setting, policy research, coalition leadership, and campaign creation.
- Attend and speak at Mental Health America’s Policy Institute and Annual Conference: Members will receive scholarships to attend and speak at MHA’s 2026 Policy Institute and Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., from October 6–9.
- Influence state policy and advance youth peer support: Collaborate to develop policy priorities and strategy. Members will meet directly with policymakers and advocates and participate in the National Youth Peer Support Coalition.
- Grow your network: Build relationships with your cohort, policy experts, and Mental Health America's youth leaders network of over 150 program graduates with ongoing training and leadership opportunities.
All applicants will be invited to join our broader youth peer network.
Applications are due Friday, July 17.
Applicants will be notified of selection by Thursday, July 23.
Questions? Contact Jackie Menjivar, MHA’s manager of peer and youth advocacy, at jmenjivar@mhanational.org.