About
ECAC Youth Advisory Groups Application Now Open!
We are excited to share some updates about ECAC’s Youth Advisory Teams (YAT) and Junior Youth Advisory Team (JYAT)! As we continue to grow, we’ve taken time to thoughtfully revise and strengthen these teams to create even more meaningful leadership, connection, and impact for students.
What are JYAT & YAT?
The Youth Advisory Teams are youth-led groups that give students a voice in shaping programs, sharing lived experiences, building leadership skills, and connecting with peers across North Carolina.
- JYAT (Junior Youth Advisory Team): Middle School
- YAT (Youth Advisory Team): High School
Students participate in interactive meetings, leadership roles, projects, and discussions focused on advocacy, confidence, communication, and leadership development.
What’s New This Year?
Our updated structure includes:
- Clearly defined leadership roles
- Opportunities for students to rotate into leadership positions
- Youth-led discussions and activities
- Leadership Labs focused on real-world skills
- A renewed focus on inclusion, voice, and collaboration
Important: Application Required for All Students
As part of this refresh, all students — including current JYAT and YAT members — will need to submit an application. This helps us:
- Learn more about each student’s interests and goals
- Ensure a balanced and engaged group
- Create leadership opportunities that match student strengths
Submitting an application does not mean you are starting over, it simply helps us build the strongest teams possible moving forward.
Meeting Schedule:
Both JYAT and YAT meet twice per month on Thursday evenings. Additional details, including start dates and meeting times, will be shared once applications are reviewed.
How to Apply:
If you or your student are interested in participating, please click on the link below and complete the application.
Applications will be reviewed, and students will receive next steps and onboarding information once selections are finalized. Applications will close on January 9th to allow us to process and plan.
We are incredibly excited about this next chapter for JYAT and YAT and can’t wait to welcome both returning and new members into these revised teams. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.