Make Your Mark

Teenagers have the power to change the world. At JUST TRYAN IT we need YOU to help families facing childhood cancer.

You’re not too young to make a real difference. At JUST TRYAN IT, we believe that young leaders bring fresh ideas, unstoppable energy, and the power to inspire their peers in ways adults never could. Whether you want to lead a fundraiser, create viral content, organize your school, or shape the future of our organization, there’s a place for you here.

This isn’t about checking a box for community service hours (though you’ll definitely earn those). This is about using your skills, creativity, and voice to support kids your age and younger who are fighting cancer.

Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)

The Youth Advisory Committee brings teen perspectives directly into the heart of JUST TRYAN IT’s work. YAC members don’t just attend meetings—they lead race promotion, drive youth engagement, and make real decisions that shape how we reach and inspire kids ages 6-14.

What YAC Members Do

  • Lead race promotion and implementation strategies
  • Create campaigns that connect with young people
  • Increase awareness about childhood cancer and JUST TRYAN IT’s mission
  • Meet twice a month with other passionate teen leaders from both race locations
  • Work year-round on projects that matter

Who Can Join

Youth ages 15-18 who have a demonstrated passion for JUST TRYAN IT’s mission. We’re looking for creative thinkers, natural leaders, and teens who want to turn their empathy into action.

Interested? Contact Deb Povinelli at deb.povinelli@justtryanit.org to learn more about joining the YAC.

JTI Club at Durham Academy Candy Drive

JTI Club at Durham Academy Candy Drive

YAC Members Emcee the Opening Ceremonies

YAC Members Emcee the Opening Ceremonies

Leadership Opportunities for Teens

JTI at Your School

  • Start a JTI Club at your School
  • Host a Candy Drive or Bake Sale
  • Recruit a team of triatheletes or volunteers

Host Dine Outs and Other Fundraisers

Partner with local restaurants and businesses to organize fundraising events. From dine-outs to bake sales to creative campaigns you dream up yourself, these events raise money while building community awareness. Plus, you get real-world event planning experience.

Teens Take-On Cancer Fundraising Campaign

Lead your own fundraising campaign specifically designed for teens. Rally your friends, teammates, club members, or youth group to raise funds for families in treatment. Make it competitive, make it fun, make it yours.

Ready to Lead?

You don’t have to wait until you’re an adult to change the world. Join JUST TRYAN IT’s youth leadership programs and start making an impact today.

Whether you want to:

  • Join the Youth Advisory Committee
  • Start a club at your school
  • Lead a fundraising campaign
  • Create content that goes viral
  • Intern with our race teams
  • Or bring us your own creative idea

We’re ready to support you.

Your leadership. Your generation. Your impact on families facing childhood cancer.