YOUTH ADVOCATE PROGRAM

The LICT Youth Advocate Program trains teenagers aged 12 to 17 to deliver outreach presentations on Tourette Syndrome and related disorders to schools and community groups. By sharing their personal experiences, these advocates empower themselves and convey a strong anti-bullying message that fosters acceptance, tolerance, and self-advocacy. Youth Advocates reach a multitude of students in both public and private schools, sports leagues, scout troops, camps and after school programs across Long Island.

Additionally, the LICT YAs may also be called upon to present with LICT faculty to interns, residents, fellows, MDs, nurses and other allied health professionals.In these presentations, the expert covers the signs, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of TS, followed by the youth advocate's 10- to 15-minute presentation, including a Q&A session. This format allows attendees to gain insight into the real-life impact and challenges faced by individuals living with Tourette Syndrome.

Long Island Center for Tourette Youth Advocate Program is now accepting applications for the Fall 2026!

Youth Advocate/Parent teams will be trained this Fall and be ready to participate and present the program during the school year!

The training will take place on:

Dec 5, 2026

10:00 am-3:00 pm

DeMatteis Center

101 Northern Blvd.

Greenvale, NY

This activity is for youth aged 12–18, with or without Tourette Syndrome (TS) and who are interested in being trained as a Youth Advocate for TS.

Youth Advocates promote awareness, and provide insight into the real-life impact and challenges faced by individuals living with TS and related complex neuropsychiatric conditions.

Youth Advocates also play a strategic role in reducing stigma, enhancing public health awareness about TS and its associated disorders, and providing education and support for the Tourette community through presentations to public and private schools, sports leagues, scout troops, camps and after school programs as well as for healthcare and educational providers across Long Island.

For further information and/or to register for this upcoming training, please contact Jane Zwilling, PsyD directly at: Hzwilling@aol.com by November 30, 2026.