NAMI Next Gen Application 2025

Are You the Next Generation of Mental Health Leaders?

We believe in the power and expertise of young adult voices to address mental health and wellbeing . Your perspectives and ideas are at the forefront of our mission, and we are looking for YOU to join our NAMI Next Gen Advisory group for 2025-2026.

NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

NAMI Next Gen is a 10-member young adult advisory group representing the voices of young people across the country. Next Gen Advisors advise, create, and innovate with NAMI to shape how the organization works with youth and young adults.

We are looking for young adults ages 18-25 with diverse experiences and skills, gender identities, and cultural backgrounds from across the United States who:

• Are passionate and committed to mental health and wellbeing
• Seek to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health
• Feel inspired to create and share innovative ideas for building peer-to-peer community, as well as youth and young adult mental health resources, programs, and content

Role + Responsibilities

• An estimated commitment of 20 hours a week
• Participate in monthly team meetings with peers and NAMI staff
• Advise NAMI on the development and creation of current programming and potential new projects
• Plan, participate, and facilitate youth-focused events
• Contribute and participate in NAMI’s media activities, including social media content, podcasts, and public speaking engagements with partners
• Lead the content and distribution of NAMI’s youth and young adult newsletter and Community of Practice

Program Requirements

• Between the ages of 18 – 25 years old
• Commitment to serve on the advisory board for one year, from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2025. We request that members not serve in other advisory group positions during their term
• Uphold NAMI’s principles and willingness to demonstrate a commitment to promoting kindness, equity, creativity, and mental wellness
• Availability to attend biweekly team meetings during weekdays
• Willingness to participate in professional development

Program Benefits

• Engage in creative and innovative efforts to support the mental well-being of youth and young adults
• Work alongside other passionate and diverse individuals
• Gain valuable leadership and service experience
• Increase knowledge about youth mental health policies and programs
• Receive $20/hour compensation as a part-time employee for your hard work, time, and dedication

Whether you’re starting mental health clubs, breaking generational curses in your home, or ensuring the workforce prioritizes mental health well-being, we believe that diverse voices are essential for creating a vibrant and inclusive community. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences!

Are you ready to lead the next generation of mental health advocates?

Apply here

If you have questions or need support, contact Dominique Freeman, NAMI’s Youth and Young Adult Initiatives Manager, at [email protected].