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Teen Leadership
STATE TEEN PANEL
STP is Iowa CYP's teen leadership crew for Guard-connected youth ages 13–17. Members plan events, advise program decisions, tell their own stories, and represent Iowa at regional symposiums.
About STP
Lead, connect, and make an impact
The State Teen Panel gives Guard-connected teens a seat at the table. Members work alongside CYP staff to plan camps and events, mentor younger youth, and bring the teen perspective to program decisions that affect hundreds of families statewide.
STP members also represent Iowa at regional and national symposiums — a rare opportunity to network with military-connected teens from across the country.
“The online adventure kits gave our kids something to look forward to when we couldn’t be together in person. It still felt like CYP showed up for us.” Guard parent
- Lead service projects and mentor younger campers
- Earn volunteer hours and documented leadership experience
- Advise CYP staff on programs and events that matter to teens
- Represent Iowa at regional symposiums with military teens nationwide
- Connect with peers who understand Guard life firsthand
Who can join
- Ages 13–17 at time of application
- Connected to the Iowa National Guard (child, stepchild, or legal dependent of a Guard member)
- Interested in leadership, service, and peer connection
- Able to attend STP events and camps throughout the year
Youth volunteer opportunity
Support the State Teen Panel—without becoming an official delegate
The State Teen Panel Support Youth Volunteer role is for young people who want to help with STP activities, projects, outreach, and events in an unofficial capacity. Volunteers work alongside Iowa CYP staff and, when assigned, official STP delegates.
Military affiliation is not required. This role offers a meaningful way to build leadership and service experience while supporting military-connected youth.
Important distinction
This volunteer position supports STP-related programming, but it does not make someone an official State Teen Panel delegate, unit representative, or spokesperson for Iowa ARNG youth. Official STP membership remains subject to Iowa ARNG CYP eligibility and policy requirements.
Ways to help
- Assist with teen activities, retreats, service projects, and special events
- Welcome participants, prepare materials, and help with set-up and clean-up
- Share youth feedback and support approved outreach efforts
- Take part in community service and leadership-development projects
What to expect
- Applicants must be under 18 and meet activity-specific CYP age requirements
- Parent or guardian consent, CYP registration, approval, and orientation are required
- Assignments vary throughout the program year and are always voluntary
- Volunteers remain under direct, line-of-sight adult supervision
Stories of impact
Pulled from Stories of Impact
These spotlights are pulled from our published Stories of Impact page. They show how State Teen Panel members lead through service, connection, and the everyday moments that shape Guard family life.
2026 Region 7 Youth Symposium
Region 7 Teens Turn Leadership Into Action
Ten teens from four states packed thousands of meals, elevated military-youth concerns, and discovered that leadership begins with service and listening.
“I was really able to grow and make connections with people I've never met before, and we are leaving feeling like a family.”Read the full story
National youth advocacy
A Voice Bigger Than One State
An Iowa teen carries the voices of National Guard youth into national conversations.
“No matter how small you are or what state you are from, your voice can be heard. People want to hear you.”Read the full story
Capitol moment
Iowa Recognizes Month of the Military Child
Military families and youth stood together as April was officially proclaimed Month of the Military Child.
“Public recognition tells military children that their resilience, service, and sacrifice are seen.”Read the full story
Listening across generations
Moments That Stay With Us
Teen leaders sat with veterans to hear personal stories of service, sacrifice, and life after the uniform.
“The experience you gain and the time spent away from family made service feel personal instead of distant.”Read the full story
Guard Teen Panel
Iowa Teen Steps Into Statewide Leadership
Charlee Cromwell was selected to help carry Iowa youth perspectives into Guard Teen Panel conversations.
“That experience helped me realize I wanted to use my voice to support other military teens across our region.”Read the full story
Festival spotlight
Fall Family Festival Strengthens Guard Connections
Camp Dodge became a reunion space filled with activities, partners, and Guard family connection.
“Community-backed events help Guard families feel seen, supported, and less alone.”Read the full story
Youth spotlight
Altoona Teen Honored for Service to Guard Families
Klair's service with the State Teen Panel earned statewide recognition and strengthened support for younger Guard youth.
“Service became her way of shaping the Guard family experience for other kids.”Read the full story
STP Retreat
Teen leaders building connection and confidence
The STP Retreat gives teen leaders time to plan, serve, and strengthen the peer relationships that make the State Teen Panel effective throughout the year.
Retreat moments help teens practice leadership in a setting built around trust, shared experience, and real connection with other Guard-connected youth.
Ready to lead?
Apply to join the State Teen Panel
Applications open each spring. Spots are limited — if you're Guard-connected and ready to lead, don't wait. Fill out the form and a CYP coordinator will follow up with next steps.
Common questions
Frequently asked about STP
Do I have to have previous leadership experience?
No. STP is designed to build leadership skills, not require them. If you're motivated and want to make a difference for military-connected youth, you're a great fit.
How much of a time commitment is it?
STP members typically attend a few key events per year including summer camp and a planning session. Time varies by activity — we work with teens to fit schedules.
Is there any cost to participate?
Most STP activities are covered by Iowa CYP. If any costs arise, financial assistance is available — cost should never be a barrier.
What happens after I apply?
A CYP coordinator will reach out within a few days to schedule a brief conversation and walk you through the next steps.
Still have questions?
Our team is happy to chat before you apply.