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About PATCH

We are Providers and Teens Communicating for Health (PATCH), a community of teens and adults working together to improve adolescent health and well-being.

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We believe teen voices should be part of the conversations that shape adolescent health. That’s why we hire teens ages 14–19 to work alongside adults over time in shared learning and collaboration.

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Teens bring their lived experiences, ideas, and perspectives into discussions about programs, services, initiatives, and goals that impact their health and communities.

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We take those perspectives seriously and create space for them to meaningfully guide the work we do together.

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Because TEENS are the experts in their own lives.

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Our Mission

To improve adolescent health and wellbeing alongside and in true partnership with teens.

Our Vision

A world where every teen grows up healthy, connected, and thriving.

Our Model for Youth Engagement

Teens are amazing. They are curious, creative, and full of energy and ideas. Their perspectives spark fresh thinking, fuel meaningful conversations, and help guide the work that shapes the health and wellbeing of their generation.

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#BecauseTHEYaretheexperts

Youth-Adult Partnerships

Teens and adults work side by side, with trust, honesty, and respect at the center.

Youth-Driven Programming

Adults handle the structure and behind-the-scenes work so teens can show up, share, and shine.

Employment

Being part of PATCH is a real job. Teens apply, interview, and are hired and paid for their expertise.

Education

Teens explore topics that matter (from mental health to racial justice to sexual health) with guest speakers, honest conversations, and space to grow.

Empowerment

Teens are encouraged to explore their passions, share their stories, and recognize that their voice truly matters.

Our Impact

Since 2010, PATCH has created structured spaces where teens share their lived experiences, ideas, and perspectives to directly inform adolescent health programs, services, and initiatives.

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Over time, this work has continued to evolve with new programs, new ideas, and ongoing innovation in how teen voice is centered in adolescent health.

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PATCH Teens have helped shape health goals, influence programs and grants, improve how adolescents experience health care, and advocate for what teens actually need in those spaces.

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Years later, alumni continue to reflect on their time at PATCH and how it carries into school, work, relationships, and their communities. Many describe gaining confidence, feeling heard, and having supportive adults who took their voices seriously.

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As interest in this approach has grown, PATCH has also supported other organizations through coaching and shared resources to bring this model into their own communities.

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Through all of it, one thing stays consistent: adolescent health is stronger when teens help shape it. #BecauseTHEYaretheexperts

"By FAR the best job. I joined over a decade ago, and yet PATCH is still the best boss, mentorship structure, and culture I have ever experienced."

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— PATCH Alumni

PATCH Publications

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