The Cebrin Goodman Teen Institute is our main event of the year and provides an opportunity for middle school and high school students from across Illinois and around the world to develop their leadership skills, learn about prevention, create plans for local positive change and curate a like-minded community over the course of a week!

Eastern Illinois University

CGTI 2025

July 13–17, 2025 | APPLICATIONS CLOSED!

Students that attend CGTI will:

  • Attend keynotes and workshops pertaining to their leadership interests 

  • Connect with like-minded peers in small group team building sessions 

  • Work with students from their community or shared geographic area on creating impactful community change

  • Enjoy camp-wide events including daily free time, a talent show, and a celebration dance 

  • Leave with developed leadership and communication skills, future readiness tools, resources for community advocacy and 22 service hours!

Adult Mentors can attend CGTI with their groups!

Adult Mentors will be responsible for facilitating Action Planning meetings, attending Adult Mentor sessions and supporting overall student wellbeing, while also having free time to work, relax and collaborate. CEUs are available for Adult Mentors. IABH Staff, CGTI Leadership Team, CGTI Volunteer Staff and the CGTI Nurse will be responsible for overall participant supervision and safety during the conference.

Levels of Participation

  • Middle School

    Middle School Participants are going into 7th–8th grade for the upcoming school year.

  • High School

    High School Participants are going into 9th–12th grade for the upcoming school year and have not yet attended CGTI as a high schooler.

  • PALS

    PALS are going into 11th–12th grade for the upcoming school year and have attended CGTI once as a high schooler.

  • Youth Staff

    Youth Staff are going into 12th grade for the upcoming school year or have graduated and have ideally completed the PALS program.

  • Volunteer Staff

    Volunteer Staff are 18+ and have graduated high school. Staff that have served more than two years can apply for Leadership Team.

  • Adult Mentor

    Adult Mentors are 21+ and are bringing a community of student participants (Action Team). Adult Mentors facilitate Action Team meetings.