We recently caught up with the Brattleboro QYD Steering Committee to see how Vermont's first Community Youth Council is going! The Youth Council’s purpose is to advise the community on issues, directly and indirectly, related to youth. They advocate for expanded community engagement opportunities for youth — such as internships, apprenticeships, civic leadership, and employment.
Since the council's launch last October, they've created subcommittees to handle different elements of the council's goals. The groups plan to tackle issues like downtown Brattleboro safety, safe and healthy living environments for youth, more voice for students in School/District decisions, and the creation of Community Internships!
The fourteen Youth Council members are preparing for action by attending trainings and collaborating with Brattleboro Union High School student leaders. And what's more — they're having fun while doing it! In a recent survey, 100% of responders said they felt more connected to their community by being on the Youth Council, and that they could be themselves with other council members. We're so excited Brattleboro has this amazing youth-led support!