Why Join?
Healthcare settings often overlook the needs of teens and young adults, focusing primarily on children or adults. The YAAC aims to bridge this gap by addressing the challenges faced by young people with autoimmune diseases. Your experiences make you experts on what matters most to young adults navigating their autoimmune journey.
Your Voice Matters
Joining the YAAC gives you a platform to help identify and communicate the unique needs of youth in patient education, resources, communications, and support for those living with autoimmune diseases. Whether it’s navigating peer pressure, managing school and extracurricular responsibilities, or exploring career opportunities, your insights can significantly impact the lives of young people with autoimmune conditions.
As a member of the YAAC, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Connect: Forge meaningful connections with peers living with autoimmune diseases.
- Empower: Advocate for the autoimmune community by sharing your unique perspectives, ideas, and experiences.
- Advise: Provide valuable insights and recommendations to shape the Autoimmune Association’s programs and initiatives.
- Prepare for the Future: Develop leadership skills and become future leaders who can continue to drive positive change within the association.
Apply Now!
To be considered, you must submit an application and participate in a virtual interview. The deadline to apply is February 20, 2026. The 2026 term will begin April 1, 2026 and end March 31, 2027.
Apply Now
Questions? Contact Colleen Kmiecik, Director of Marketing and Communications & YAAC Staff Co-Chair at colleen@autoimmune.org.
