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Local Teens Encouraged to Apply to Join Governor's NYS Youth Council

 

Monticello, NY – There’s a great opportunity for a local young person to serve on the New York State Governor’s Youth Council!

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced the formation of a New York State Youth Council, to increase participatory democracy. One youth from each county will be chosen to advise the governor and State and local policymakers on key issues facing young people and on outreach and communication strategies. The State is now accepting applications from youth to serve on this council.

“This is an incredible opportunity for New York’s youth to represent their county on a statewide level – to offer solutions and policy recommendations to key issues facing young people: education, youth violence/cyberbullying, the opioid crisis, juvenile justice, environmental justice, and civic engagement,” Sullivan County Youth Bureau Director Lesia Snihura said. “The Council will also address issues of vital relevance to young women and girls, including sexual assault and harassment, female empowerment, economic opportunity, and wage parity.”

The Youth Council will be run by youth ages 13 to 21, who will gain hands-on experience in the democratic process, serving two-year terms. Once selected, Youth Council members will convene in Albany for orientation and training and then form regional teams to focus on specific policy issues.

Interested youth need to submit their application through an online portal, completing an essay and a video demonstrating their interest in one of the council’s focus areas. Candidates will be selected based on their character, leadership skills, academic achievement, civic engagement, and community service.

Youth may apply at https://nysylc.secure-platform.com/a/solicitations/home/1; the deadline for submission is December 9.

If you have any questions, please contact Lesia or Sherrie at the Sullivan County Youth Bureau at (845) 807-0394.