Black Teens in Action
A short-term leadership cohort for Black youth ages 13–17 to plan and lead a community-impact project while building skills, confidence, and connection. Meeting weekly for 4–6 weeks, teens collaborate to create meaningful change in BIPOC communities and form lasting relationships in an affirming, culturally rooted space.
Black Teens in Action Spring Cohort
Black Teens in Action is a youth driven, in-person program where Black teens can grow, connect, and take action together. Over four weeks, participants will design and lead a community service project that makes a real impact—whether it’s hosting a block party, organizing a cleanup, or preparing meals for those in need.
Youth will meet once a week for three weeks to plan, gain leadership and advocacy skills, build relationships, and explore their cultural identity through meaningful discussions and team-building activities. The final fourth week is dedicated to bringing their project to life in the local BIPOC community.
Youth will receive a stipend of$550 for their time and leadership if they participate in the entire program. Dinner will be provided at each meeting.
*This program can only accommodate 10 youth on a first come first serve, all other youth will be waitlisted.
*If you have participated in Black Teens in Action in the last year, you may be waitlisted.
How will this event make an impact on the community?
“It will help people know that we care and want to help.”
— BTIA Teen
Stay Tuned for the next cohort of Black Teens in Action - Fall 2026
To qualify for Black Teens in Action, teens need to be:
Between 13-17 years-old
Identify as Black or African American
Have been adopted, or currently in Foster Care or Kinship Care in Minnesota.
What BTIA teens hope to gain during and after their community event.
More experience in this field of helping my community.
—- BTIA Teen
Stay Informed
Black Teens in Action Winter Cohort
Our Black Teens in Action cohort began this journey as strangers and grew into friends and colleagues. Throughout the cohort, they reflected on the power of community and challenged themselves to create a meaningful way to give back.
From those conversations, Family Day was born—a youth‑planned event designed to be inspiring, engaging, and fun for the whole family.
This event is an opportunity for families to come together, build relationships with other families, and enjoy quality time in a welcoming environment. Youth will have the chance to connect with one another, play games, and create positive memories, while adults can relax, socialize, and support community together.
How our BTIA teens felt about the event.
“Talking and planning the event with peers”
— BTIA Teen
Games & Activities
Cornhole tournament
UNO tournament
Relay races and group games
(and more!)
Featuring
Food
Walking tacos
Snacks and refreshments
Prizes for Youth
Roblox gift cards
Free haircut vouchers
Plushies
Cozy coloring books
(and more!)