Teens United
What is Teens United?
Lead. Serve. Speak Up.
If you care about your community, believe everyone deserves a fair chance, and want to use your voice to make a difference, Teens United is where that belief turns into action.
Teens United is a youth leadership and service program designed for high school students who want to better understand what’s happening in Greensboro –and take part in real solutions. Through hands-on service, learning, and collaboration, students build leadership skills while discovering how change happens when people work together.
Why Teens United?
Ending poverty and strengthening communities doesn’t happen overnight – and it doesn’t happen alone. At United Way Greater Greensboro, we bring people, organizations, and ideas together to break the cycle of poverty and help families build lasting stability.
Through Teens United, students get a front-row seat to how that work happens – and a chance to play an active role.
Members learn how United Way partners with local organizations, community leaders, and neighbors to address challenges facing families and neighborhoods, while gaining the skills and confidence to lead and advocate for change.
As a Teens United member, you will:
What You’ll Experience
Hands-On Service
Participate in hands-on service and volunteer projects with United Way initiatives and community partners.
Plan Events
Plan and lead signature events for the local community, such as Trunk or Treat.
Group Discussions
Engage in group discussions and team building activities with students from different schools, backgrounds, and perspectives.
Learn from Leaders
Connect and learn from community leaders and nonprofit professionals.
Interactive Sessions
Take part in interactive learning sessions focused on local issues, poverty in Greensboro, and how collective action creates impact.
Share Your Voice
Ask questions, share perspectives, and think critically about solutions that strengthen families and neighborhoods.
Program Experience
Teens United programming takes place throughout the school year and includes a mix of after-school meetings, special events, and volunteer experiences.
Members may visit local organizations, collaborate in small groups, and explore topics such as poverty, education, community well-being, and advocacy – all while building leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
Before the program begins, an orientation is held for accepted students to review program goals, expectations, and impact. Students who successfully complete the program are recognized for their commitment and contributions, celebrating their growth as young leaders and community advocates.
Who Can Apply
Teens United is open to rising sophomores and juniors attending public, private, or home schools in the Greater Greensboro area.
Applicants should:
- Have an interest in leadership, service, and community impact
- Be curious about local issues and open to learning about poverty and its solutions
- Be willing to participate in discussions, activities, and service opportunities
- Commit to active participation throughout the program year
- Attend at least 70% of the meetings (in-person at United Way Greater Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville ST, Greensboro, every third Wednesday of the month, from 6-7:30 p.m.)
No prior leadership experience is required—just a willingness to learn and engage.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by United Way of Greater Greensboro staff and current Teens United members. Space is limited to 40 students to ensure a meaningful and engaging experience.
Selected students and families will be notified by email. All applications are kept confidential.
Join Teens United
Ready to Get Started?
Apply today and join a community of young leaders helping shape a stronger Greensboro.
Questions? Email holly.beck@unitedwaygso.org
United is the Way – and it starts with you.
