Grant Request Kinston Teens
Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form
Organization Name: Kinston Teens
Legal Name (if Different): Kinston Teens, Incorporated
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2625
City: Kinston
State: NC
Postal Code: 28502
Main Phone: 252-522-8012
Main Fax: N/A
Organization Website: www.kinstonteens.org
Employer ID Number: 47-2645211
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)
Proposal Information
Today’s Date: March 23, 2026
Requested Amount: 10,000
Project Title: Youth Speak: Voices for Healing & Wellness
Project Description:
Youth Speak is a year-long youth mental wellness and empowerment initiative led by Kinston Teens. The purpose of this project is to create structured, youth-led spaces where teens and young adults can process stress, build resilience, and express their authentic voices during a pivotal civic year.
In rural Eastern North Carolina, young people face rising anxiety, political polarization, economic uncertainty, and limited access to mental health resources. Youth Speak addresses these pressures by providing a continuum of engagement that combines dialogue, creative expression, peer leadership, and civic voice.
The series will anchor around two signature events: Youth Speak: Teen Town Hall (Fall 2026), where youth engage candidates and elected officials in a moderated, youth-led conversation about mental health and community well-being; and Youth Speak: Now What? (Winter 2026/27), a post-election reflection and resilience forum focused on processing emotions, rebuilding hope, and identifying constructive next steps for youth leadership.
Between these events, participants will engage in monthly wellness circles, journaling and storytelling workshops, peer facilitator training, and small-group dialogue sessions designed to strengthen coping skills, belonging, and self-advocacy. Youth leaders will help shape each gathering, ensuring the program reflects lived experiences and authentic priorities.
The ultimate purpose of Youth Speak is to reduce isolation, increase confidence and agency, and empower young people to believe their voices matter. Our goal is that this belief is evident not only during moments of public attention like election seasons or crises, but that we are able to empower youth to shape a healthier, more hopeful future for themselves and their community.
Total Project Budget: 10,000
Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): N/A
Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Kinston, NC
Age Group To Be Served: 12-21
Contact Information
Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Bridget
Contact Last Name: Rouse
Contact Title: Youth Engagement Manager
Contact Phone: 252-522-8012
Contact Email: bridget@kinstonteens.org