- Home
- Government
- Community Programs
- Mayor's Youth Advisory Council
Mayor's Youth Advisory Council
High school students can make their voice heard and impact their community by applying for the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council (MYAC).
Since 2002, MYAC has empowered young people to actively engage in community planning, collaborate with local officials, and address youth-related issues. This non-profit organization offers a unique blend of interaction with government officials and community service projects, fostering positive youth development.
As part of a nationwide initiative, MYAC members advise the Mayor and collaborate with local officials, contributing to the betterment of our community. Students are encouraged to apply to be part of shaping a brighter future for their community.
Mission
The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council will serve as a dedicated platform, amplifying the voices of young adults in our community. MYAC offers a vital opportunity to address direct concerns and issues, providing impactful solutions to local government officials through active participation and community involvement.
What Students Gain
- Amplify their voice
- Decision-making skills
- Leadership
- Life Skills
- Media training
- Networking
- Organization
- Public speaking training
- Responsibility
- Team Building
- Teamwork
To Apply:
- Complete a neatly printed or typed application.
- Ensure the application is signed by the student.
- If the applicant is under 18, a "Parent/Guardian Recommendation Form" with a signature is required.
- All applicants must submit an "Adult Recommendation Form".
**note: recommendations from adults may include professors, teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, guardians, relatives, instructors, ministers, or other adult mentors. - Make sure to answer all sections of the application for consideration.
- MYAC is open to students who live in New Haven or who attend New Haven High School.
Leadership
Upon receipt of a fully completed application, it will undergo a comprehensive review by the Youth Director. Subsequently, qualified applicants will proceed to an interview process conducted by the Mayor and Youth Director, Deb-Anne Smith.
Meetings
Youth Advisors will play a supportive role in facilitating the proceedings of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, with the meetings themselves being conducted by its members. These sessions are scheduled on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month, typically convened at New Haven City Hall (815 Lincoln Highway East, New Haven, IN 46774).
State of the Youth Address
A designated representative from the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council is tasked with delivering the 'State of the Youth Address' preceding the annual New Haven Mayor’s State of the City Address. This address serves the purpose of providing a comprehensive report on the concerns, issues, future goals, and aspirations of the organization.
Annual Regional Youth Forum
The Annual Youth Leadership Conference stands as a commendable educational opportunity extended to young individuals across the region. It encompasses a comprehensive program featuring leadership development, life skills training, and legislative education. The initiation and execution of this event was spearheaded by the New Haven Mayor’s Office, in collaboration with planning, input, and assistance from the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council. While New Haven took on the inaugural role of the 'host' city for this event, it offers other cities the prospect to organize and host the conference in subsequent years.
Community Service Projects
The MYAC organization actively engages in diverse projects designed to contribute to the welfare of the community and its residents. Participation in community service projects serves as a means for young individuals to contribute to the betterment of their community and fosters a sense of civic responsibility and engagement among the youth.
More Information
For more information, contact the Mayor's Executive Assistant, Deb-Anne Smith at 260.748.7072.
** Applications are always accepted. Consideration will be held in the spring of each year.