TIA™ Tampa 2025-2026 Program Details

APPLY TO OUR 2025-2025 TIA PROGRAM HERE!View Our Teens In Action Program Flyer
TIA Tampa Program Criteria:

Please review the criteria and guidelines below to ensure you can meet the requirements.

  • Applicants for Teens In Action™ must be entering grades 9 through 12 and live or attend school in Hillsborough County.
  • Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation from adults familiar with their character and commitment to growth (i.e. teacher, pastor, coach, etc.).
  • Applicants must earn at least 36 hours of community service. In addition to weekly community service at their site (Tier 1), teens have optional but encouraged opportunities to provide additional, ongoing service to the community, and to support one-time events needing volunteers (Tier 2). These events provide ample opportunities for teens to earn community service hours while applying the skills of emotional intelligence for the benefit of our community.
  • Applicants must have transportation to and from monthly EQ workshops and volunteer service sites
  • In reviewing applications, the selection committee looks for potential participants who demonstrate:
    • A desire to develop emotional intelligence concepts and skills.
    • A strong commitment to community service and learning about the projects they will support.
    • The ability to make the time commitment required by the program.
  • Upon final consideration, applicants will be contacted for an interview that will be conducted virtually or in-person if preferred.
TIA Tampa Attendance Criteria:

Please review the required events.

  • TIA Tampa Participant and Parent Orientation
  • Opening EQ Retreat
  • Monthly EQ Workshops – One Wednesday a month, in the evening
  • TIA Tampa Group Service– One weekend day per month
  • End of Year Celebration – TIA Tampa Service Site Group Presentations

Failure to attend events outlined below, and/or commitment to a minimum of 36 hours required for community service may result in dismissal from the program.

Selected Teens In Action™ Tampa participants are expected to:
  • Fully and actively participate in all aspects of the Teens In Action™ program from August 2025- May 2026
  • Demonstrate respect for staff, leaders, program guests, and fellow program members.
  • Pay a $350 program fee by August 15, 2025. Limited need-based scholarships are available. See application for additional details.