ABOUT CEBRIN GOODMAN TEEN INSTITUTE
The Cebrin Goodman Teen Institute (CGTI) is a statewide youth leadership program that gives Illinois middle and high school students the knowledge, confidence, and skills to live healthy, drug- and alcohol-free lives.
Through immersive leadership experiences, workshops, and team-building activities, students learn how to make positive choices, strengthen their voices, and create lasting change in their schools and communities.
CGTI is a program of the Illinois Association for Behavioral Health (IABH) and is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, through a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Empowering Youth to Lead with Purpose
CGTI is a year-round program built around two major youth leadership training events each year. The next week-long summer conference will be held at Eastern Illinois University.
Each year, the Monroe County Coalition for Drug-Free Communities sponsors up to 10 local youth to attend CGTI — giving students the opportunity to grow as leaders, build friendships, and bring new ideas home to their schools and communities.
A Year-Round Opportunity for Growth
What CGTI Offers
The Cebrin Goodman Teen Institute isn’t your typical conference — it’s an experience that inspires and equips young leaders to make an impact.
Students who attend gain:
Tangible leadership skills that prepare them for school, careers, and life
Effective communication tools for working with peers and advocating for change
Healthy decision-making habits rooted in personal growth and positive choices
Experiences that enhance college and job applications
22 service hours toward graduation or volunteer requirements
A supportive network of peers and mentors from across Illinois who share their commitment to prevention and leadership
Why It Matters
CGTI gives youth the tools to see themselves as leaders and change-makers. The lessons learned go far beyond the conference — they shape how students approach challenges, support their peers, and advocate for a healthier, drug-free lifestyle.
When students return home, they bring their energy, ideas, and leadership back to our community — strengthening programs like Operation Snowball and inspiring others to make a difference.
2024-25 CGTI Highlights
This past summer, seven Monroe County students participated in the 2024 CGTI at Eastern Illinois University — four from Valmeyer and three from Columbia — along with five adult mentors who guided and supported them throughout the experience.
We’re proud to share that Columbia School Resource Officer Tyler McWorther received the Engagement Spotlight Award, recognizing an adult mentor who has gone above and beyond in connecting with students and fostering leadership throughout the year.
This growth — from last year’s participation of three students and one mentor — reflects the Coalition’s ongoing commitment to building strong youth leadership in Monroe County.
Are you a middle or high school student in Monroe County who’s ready to lead? Do you want to make a difference, meet new people, and grow your confidence?
The Monroe County Coalition for Drug-Free Communities will send up to 10 youth leaders each year to attend CGTI — and you could be one of them.
Contact us to learn more about how to apply or nominate a student for this life-changing opportunity.