Teens Who Lead
Rooted in the idea of training the next generation of volunteers and philanthropists, our teen programs empower high school students to lead, give back and make a difference in their community.
At Wonders & Worries, we believe teenagers have the power to lead and inspire. Through two exciting programs — our in-person Teen Leadership Council and our virtual Teens Giving Back group — high school students across Texas (and beyond) are raising funds, spreading awareness, and supporting children whose parents are facing serious illness or injury.
Teen Leadership Council (10th–12th Grade)
A selective, high-impact leadership opportunity in Austin, TX.
The Teen Leadership Council is an in-person program for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who want to take a hands-on role in leadership and fundraising. Members develop professional skills, work in subcommittees, and host their signature fundraiser benefitting Wonders & Worries: Yappy Hour & Pup Fashion Show.
How It Works:
- Participate in planning our signature fundraiser – Yappy Hour & Pup Fashion Show
- Monthly in-person meetings during the school year
- Leadership roles & work in subcommittees
- 25+ volunteer hours awarded
- $500 donation (sponsorship/scholarship options)
- Enrollment is currently closed
The 2025–2026 Teen Leadership Council is full. Please check back in early 2026 to enroll for the 2026/27 school year.
Teens Giving Back (9th–12th Grade)
A flexible, virtual fundraising program open to all high school students.
Want to support Wonders & Worries from wherever you are? Teens Giving Back lets you create your own fundraising project — big or small — while earning volunteer hours and connecting virtually with like-minded teens. You’ll gain experience in event planning, marketing, and project management with mentorship along the way.
How It Works:
- Design your own fundraiser (we’ll help you brainstorm!)
- Attend 4 virtual meetings:
- Sept 15, 2025 | Nov 17, 2025 | Jan 12, 2026 | Mar 30, 2026 (7PM Central)
- Meet one-on-one with W&W staff to refine your project
- 15+ volunteer hours awarded
- $50 donation to Wonders & Worries required
- Open enrollment now through Sept 12
Ready to join? Sign up today!
Our teens are an inspiring part of the Wonders & Worries family. They bring creativity, compassion, and energy to our mission — and we’re proud to guide them as they grow into future leaders.
Here’s what our teen participants have to say about their journey:
“Being on the Wonders & Worries Teen Leadership Council has taught me important skills such as collaboration, organization, and time management. I have had such a fun year getting to know the other students on the council.” – Harper L.
“Serving on the Teen Leadership Council has been an enriching experience that has given me the opportunity to give back to the organization that supported me and provides illness education and coping skills to kids in need, echoing the support I once received.” – Ashley H.
“I had such a great experience serving on the Teen Council for three years. The business and marketing skills I gained, paired with the opportunity to serve the Wonders & Wonders organization, made for a wonderfully unique experience that will serve me well in college and beyond.” – Katie S.
Thank you to our Teen Leadership Council Sponsors:
