Youth Council

Graphic logo with a raised fist in front of city buildings, including a pink skyscraper, a blue street sign, and yellow buildings. Contains the words "YOUTH COUNCIL."
A group of young people posing for a photo indoors in front of a colorful mural that says "Power Up!" with silhouettes of people and a sunset background. There are 14 individuals, some sitting and some standing, with diverse appearances and casual clothing.

Youth Council is a 3-4 year program with each year consisting of 10-months. Youth participants learn about social justice, build their critical lens, and are equipped with the tools to become leaders. High school students are welcome to enroll in Youth Council as 1st years at any grade.

Phases of the Program: 1st Year, 2nd Year, Interns, Lead Interns, Social Justice Interns (College)

How It Works:

Youth Council consists of 3 Cohorts, and all students are required to complete a service learning project at the end of the school year in order to graduate into the next phase of the program.

The 3 Cohorts

A person giving a presentation on stage with a large screen behind them, decorated with colorful signs, balloons, and posters supporting community investment and local business.

Anti Gentrification

Preserving the rich and expansive history of Ramona Gardens, honoring its culture, and reducing destructive influences.

Two boys stand on grass in front of a large colorful mural depicting indigenous figures, hummingbirds, and abstract designs, with two clouds and a blue sky overhead.

Environmental Justice

Creating a natural green space, reducing air pollutants, and improving the quality of life for the community of Ramona Gardens.

Three women sitting on a beach blanket watching the sunset.

Substance Use Disorders

Promoting more funding for mental health resources, breaking the stigmas of SUD, and transforming the community.

A group of people outdoors under a bright blue sky, with a person in the center being lifted and extending their arms outward, while others stand nearby on a dirt path with hills in the background.

Interns

In the 3rd year of youth council, students become interns and lead monthly Youth Leaders in Action meetings. We aim to highlight youth and their lived experiences to create both social and cultural awareness in our future leaders.

Students in their 4th year become Youth Council Lead Interns…

S.J.I’s

Social Justice Interns (SJI’s) are college-aged students, and can be any level of familiarity with Leadership programming. SJI’s learn about various aspects of the political process, focusing on local and city processes. 

Youth Council

Group of diverse young people outdoors sitting and standing on dirt ground with trees and blue sky in the background.
A raised fist in front of a cityscape with buildings and street signs, with the text "Youth Council" at the bottom.

Benefits of Joining:

  • Receive a $500 educational award upon completion of program.

  • Field Trips & Annual overnight Big Bear trip!

  • Complete 40 plus hours of community service per year

  • Grow awareness of social justice.

  • Facilitate & attend monthly Youth Leaders in Action meetings

  • Lead social justice campaigns in the community to create real change. 

  • Gain skills & experience to advocate for positive changes in the community.

  • Building Community!

Requirements & Responsibilities

  • Attend weekly youth council meetings

  • Attending monthly Youth Leaders in Action meetings

  • Create and complete a service learning project

  • Organize and facilitate an end of the year event