Youth Advisory Council (YAC)

Lisa Vega - Youth For youths Voices Inc. Founder

Youth Advisory Council members are more than participants, they are advocates, ambassadors, and change-makers. Through leadership development, civic engagement, mentorship, community service, and project planning, members gain the confidence and skills needed to become tomorrow's leaders while creating impact today.

The Youth Advisory Council will:

  • Represent the voices and experiences of young people in the community

  • Provide input on Youth for Youths Voices programs, events, and initiatives

  • Develop and lead community service projects and youth-led campaigns

  • Advocate for issues affecting youth, including mental health, education, employment, social justice, and inclusion

  • Build leadership, communication, teamwork, and public speaking skills

  • Collaborate with community organizations, schools, businesses, and local government

  • Mentor younger youth and inspire positive peer leadership

  • Help create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where every young person feels heard, valued, and empowered

The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) of Youth for Youths Voices is a diverse group of passionate young leaders committed to ensuring that youth voices are heard, respected, and included in decisions that impact their lives and communities.

The Council serves as the heart of our organization by providing youth-driven ideas, perspectives, and leadership. Members work alongside community leaders, educators, organizations, and policymakers to identify the challenges facing young people and develop meaningful solutions that promote equity, opportunity, and positive change.

Youth Advisory Council

Membership Requirements

Eligibility

To become a member of the Youth for Youths Voices Youth Advisory Council, applicants must:

  • Be between the ages of 14 and 24

  • Reside in New York City or demonstrate a commitment to serving NYC communities

  • Be passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people

  • Demonstrate respect for people of all backgrounds, cultures, identities, and abilities

  • Be willing to work collaboratively with peers, staff, and community partners

  • Commit to serving as a positive role model within the community

Membership Expectations

Youth Advisory Council members are expected to:

  • Attend at least 80% of scheduled Council meetings

  • Participate in leadership training, workshops, and team-building activities

  • Serve on at least one committee or special project

  • Volunteer at Youth for Youths Voices events and community service initiatives

  • Contribute ideas that help improve programs, services, and community impact

  • Represent the organization professionally at meetings, events, and public engagements

  • Maintain open, respectful, and constructive communication with fellow members

  • Follow the organization's Code of Conduct and uphold its mission and values

Leadership Commitment

Members are encouraged to:

  • Take initiative in identifying issues affecting youth

  • Help plan and implement youth-led projects and advocacy campaigns

  • Mentor and encourage younger participants

  • Promote civic engagement, volunteerism, and community leadership

  • Serve as ambassadors for Youth for Youths Voices in their schools and communities

Term of Service

  • Members serve a one-year term, with the opportunity to reapply for additional terms

  • Members who demonstrate exceptional leadership may be invited to serve in officer positions,

    including Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Outreach Coordinator, or Committee Chair

Good Standing

To remain in good standing, members must:

  • Maintain regular attendance and active participation

  • Treat all members, staff, volunteers, and community partners with dignity and respect

  • Adhere to all Youth for Youths Voices policies and procedures

  • Notify Council leadership of any prolonged absence or inability to fulfill responsibilities

  • Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and a commitment to the organization's mission

Selection Process

Prospective members will:

  • 1. Submit a Youth Advisory Council application

  • 2. Participate in an informal interview or group orientation

  • 3. Agree to the Council's Code of Conduct and participation expectations

  • 4. Receive notification of acceptance and attend a New Member Orientation

Youth for Youths Voices is committed to building a Youth Advisory Council that reflects the diversity of our communities. We welcome young people of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities who are ready to lead, serve, and create meaningful change.