Youth Involvement Task Force 2018 BEST PRACTICES REPORT

2018 EDITION

THE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF MAYORS THE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF MAYORS

Stephen K. Benjamin Mayor of Columbia (SC) President

Bryan Barnett Mayor of Rochester Hills Vice President

Greg Fischer Mayor of Louisville Second Vice President

Shane Bemis Mayor of Gresham Chair, Youth Involvement Task Force

Tom Cochran CEO and Executive Director

About The United States Conference of Mayors The U.S. Conference of Mayors is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. There are 1,407 such cities in the country today, and each city is represented in the Conference by its chief elected official, the mayor. Like us on Facebook at facebook. com/usmayors, or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/usmayors.

About The Mayors’ Youth Involvement Task Force The U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Youth Involvement Task Force, led by Gresham Mayor Shane Bemis, is dedicated to helping our nation’s mayors provide and expand programming that helps young people (middle school through college) engage in civics, leadership development, internship programs, voter registration, community outreach, and more. For more information on the Mayors’ Youth Involvement Task Force, please contact James Kirby at 202.861.6759 or [email protected]. Cover photo: Durham Youth Commission and Durham’s Elected Officials Contents

About the Survey...... v

Survey Results...... vi

Individual City Highlights...... 1

Austin...... 2

Boston...... 4

Columbia...... 6

Dallas...... 8

Durham...... 10

Gresham...... 12

Knoxville...... 14

Lauderdale Lakes...... 16

Louisville...... 18

Richmond...... 20

Rochester Hills...... 22

South Bend...... 24 iv About the Survey

In 2018, The U.S. Conference of Mayors Youth Involve- PARTICIPATING CITIES: ment Task Force released its Youth Involvement Best Practices Survey to help cities share their efforts in Albany Kansas City, MO Albuquerque Knoxville connecting youth with civic engagement opportunities Alexandria Largo in their communities. Anaheim Las Vegas Austin Lauderdale Lakes Baton Rouge Little Rock Cities were asked to provide information on Louisville their youth councils, leadership programs, internship Clarksville Madison opportunities, voter registration, hosting city-wide days Columbia Merced and events with a focus on youth, connecting elementary Columbus, OH Miami Lakes Corpus Christi Nashville school-age youth with civics programming, connecting Costa Mesa Orlando with youth through social media, and more. Dallas Philadelphia Dayton Providence The survey was released in order to obtain critical in- Dolton Reno Dubuque Richmond (VA) formation surrounding youth engagement to first cre- Durham Rochester Hills ate a baseline of information for the U.S. Conference Eden Prairie Rowlett of Mayors’ newly established Youth Involvement Task Elizabeth Sacramento Force, and also to help other cities develop or expand Evanston South Bend Findlay Sumter youth programs in their communities. 54 cities total Fontana Tacoma participated in the survey. Fort Wayne Tampa Grand Rapids Tempe Gresham Torrance Henderson Tukwila West Sacramento

v Survey

80% of all cities surveyed maintain an acitve Results youth council that helps advise city programming.

89% of all cities surveyed have a youth leadership program that helps young people learn leadership and professional skills.

89% of all cities surveyed administer or help administer an internship program for youth.

85% of all cities surveyed actively engage with youth in their communities through social media.

52% of all cities surveyed are actively engaged in a voter registration effort for youth in their communities.

54% of all cities surveyed actively engage elementary school-aged children in some form of civics programming.

48% of all cities surveyed host a “Youth Day” or hold additional city-wide events for youth.

vi City Highlights

1 Mayor TEXAS Austin

Austin Youth Council the workforce. It is a 6-week program prepare with cover letters, resumes, and a where interns work with city depart- write-up describing why they are interested The City of Austin provides a number ments and other local organizations in in their respective internship option. of programs and initiatives to foster the Austin area. Students in the program youth leadership and civic engagement. participate in “Leadership Days,” where The Youth & Family Services Office offers With a variety of departments and organiza- youth go to the LBJ Library to partici- additional internship programs for Austin tions working to assist youth, the City has pate in classroom activities relating to youth. The office has four Youth Summer provided many young people with impera- historical events that have impacted the Internship Programs: the Emerging Leaders tive skills and experience. youth of previous generations. Summer Internship Program, the Get Ready! STEAM-based Internship Program, One of Austin’s flagship youth programs The Emerging Leaders program has also the Aviation Department Internship is the Austin Youth Council (AYC). The worked with additional organizations within Program, and the Austin Convention Center Council advises city programming and the Austin community including: Leadership Internship Program. There are multiple specific council initiatives. The AYC has Austin, the Conversation Corps, and the requirements that the student interns must worked on Austin’s budget office Bullock Museum. Each has offered the meet in order to complete their internships. proposals and has also held citywide student interns the opportunity to engage Once they have been accepted, the homelessness drives to provide homeless in civil conversations about real topics interns must complete an onboarding individuals with hygiene essentials. In addi- related to the world around them, while also process, attend orientation, create three tion, the AYC hosts Career Fest, an annual helping to enhance soft skills. S.M.A.R.T. goals, and create a presentation citywide event where the AYC provides all at the end of the program. high school students, throughout the City Austin Corps of Austin, the opportunity to network with Community Partners over 150 vendors that include colleges, trade Austin Corps is an off-campus government schools, businesses, and city departments. class with the City of Austin and Austin Inde- The City of Austin has a number of commu- pendent School District (ISD), where high nity partners and departments that assist Internship Programming school seniors learn about various depart- with youth leadership. The Department of ments throughout the City. During each fall Austin’s Youth & Family Services Office Aviation and the Convention Center have semester, students learn about the opera- has several Youth Summer Internship played an important role as they have tions of Austin’s city departments. During Programs for Austin’s young people. participated in hosting interns (about 20 the spring semester, students intern at One, in particular, is the Emerging each) annually for the last three years. Addi- specific departments where they learn Leaders Summer Internship Program. tionally, Bank of America has been a sponsor professional skills such as writing, dressing This initiative has a focus on enhancing for the Emerging Leaders Summer Intern- in proper attire, task-completing, and prior- leadership skills for high school students ship Program for the last six years, providing itizing. Prior to beginning their internships, as they gain professional experience in 100% of the funding. The program employs students have three interviews where they 2 Members of the City of Austin’s Youth Council at least 55 interns to work in jobs throughout also participates in PRX, the Public Radio Graphic Design at the time he applied the City to develop leadership skills and Exchange. Other City of Austin Depart- for the Aviation Department Internship attain real-world work experience. ments and Divisions have supported Program. This high school student Summer Youth Programs by taking on aspired to be active in the community, The Boy Scouts of America has multiple interns and providing them with profes- despite his challenges. programs and initiatives that focus on sional experience. the empowerment of underprivileged youth Throughout his internship, this student grew through the means of education. To date, Real World Impact increasingly confident in reporting to work the City has placed 25 high school interns Austin’s youth engagement programs without an anxiety dog. The following year, at the Boy Scouts through the City of Austin have provided youth with the tools they this intern applied for the 2018 Bank of Summer Internship Program. need to further their development both America Leadership Program where he socially and professionally. A previous graduated into Alumni status. This student’s Youth Spin is a radio program that parents continue to express their gratitude offers perspectives through the lens of Youth Summer Program Intern with disabilities completed a 6-week intern- for providing their son with the opportunity Austin Youth. The collective has been to experience the professional work environ- recognized nationally by the National ship program with the Aviation Depart- ment in 2016 & 2017. His interest was ment, while sharpening soft skills, and Federation of Broadcasters as a model helping him overcome numerous hurdles. for youth radio programs. Youth Spin in Engineering, Computer Science, and

3 Mayor MASSACHUSETTS Martin J. Walsh Boston

Leadership Development tive allows youth to decide how one mil- enrichment institutions. Teens receive a lion dollars of the City’s budget is spent. stipend at the end of the program if they Mayor Martin J. Walsh has been a driving Boston youth collaborate with one anoth- complete all required activities and meet force for many of Boston’s youth pro- er - sharing ideas, developing projects, and attendance goals. grams. His office runs a youth leadership voting to select projects to fund. initiative that provides over 3,500 youth Youth Voter Registration entry-level employment experience, with Department of Boston Centers for The City of Boston not only works to as- more than 200 community-based organi- Youth & Families zations. These jobs give youth experiences sist youth with their professional develop- that are engaging and meaningful. The City The Department of Boston Centers for ment, but also helps register young voters of Boston additionally offers a youth intern- Youth & Families (BCYF) division of Youth in the community with programs and ordi- ship program for those interested in con- Engagement & Employment (DYEE) is a nances to improve civic engagement. one-stop engagement and resource center tributing to the inner workings of the City. In 2018, Mayor Walsh signed a citywide or- for all topics relating to youth. They con- dinance increasing access to voter registra- Mayor’s Youth Council nect, advocate for, and serve young resi- tion. This new legislation aims to provide dents in Boston, helping youth develop more opportunities for residents to submit Mayor Walsh was instrumental in estab- the necessary skills and abilities that they voter registration forms when routinely in- lishing the Mayor’s Youth Council, which need as they continue to move forward. encourages youth civic engagement and teracting with City departments and agen- participation in government. Members DYEE connects teens, age 15-18, to jobs cies including the Boston Public Library, of the Youth Council are appointed by throughout the year, engaging Boston’s youth the Boston Transportation Department, Mayor Walsh to connect, engage, and em- in the civic process, and providing opportu- Boston Public Schools, and BCYF. The ordi- power Boston’s diverse youth population. nities for career development. BCYF offers nance has made it possible for City depart- Ninety-six youth from around the City of 200 youth, age 13-14, the opportunity to gain ments to provide voter registration forms to Boston currently serve on the Mayor’s high-quality service learning and leadership youth at locations that they frequent. Youth Council. The Council works on experience during July and August. BCYF In 2018, Boston Public Schools Welcome specific committees that bring a youth also offers a program called SuperTeens, an Centers and high schools will provide pre- perspective to focus areas such as arts and initiative that exists in every Boston neighbor- registration information and forms to all culture, civic engagement, and education. hood to help foster teen engagement. students eligible to pre-register to vote, and Youth Lead the Change Participants attend weekly leadership de- also to parents or legal guardians when reg- velopment workshops, and gain hands- istering children for school. Boston Public Youth Lead the Change is the first youth- on employment experience by working Schools will develop a policy to ensure that led participatory budgeting process of it’s in BCYF community centers and partici- as many eligible students as possible have kind. Created by Mayor Walsh, this initia- pating in field trips to Boston’s arts and the opportunity to vote on Election Day.

4 Day of Service nance, the program provides experiential Beantown Society, where he developed learning opportunities for youth - building and strengthened his leadership skills to Boston regularly administers programs readiness for jobs and careers through become an effective leader for social jus- for younger children to participate in a communication, project management, tice. Malachi has worked at the City of Bos- variety of City activities. Annually, BCYF leadership, and teamwork. ton’s Department of Youth Engagement plans a day of service in April, granting and Employment as well as in the Mayor’s the opportunity for elementary school-age Social Media Outreach Office of Economic Development. children to participate in the “One Boston To teach youth about City programs, Day” service events. Serving as an MBK Ambassador and Ad- the City of Boston’s social media team visory Board Member for My Brother’s This day of service is intended to reflect works with City departments that engage Keeper Boston, Malachi has offered re- upon and honor those lost and injured with youth using Twitter and Facebook marks at local community events, has during the Boston Marathon bombings. to broadcast specific opportunities avail- been featured on CNN to speak about the There are service events and activities held able to youth. In the Department of Youth injustices that he experienced growing up throughout the City. Children, along with Engagement, social media is one of the in a low-income environment, and also their parents or guardians, help clean parks, primary tools used to inform youth of em- had the opportunity to introduce former visit fire stations, and participate in City ployment and leadership opportunities. President at the final MBK beautification in Boston’s open spaces. DYEE also depends on text notifications summit at the White House. Mentoring to engage and communicate with youth. Community Partners and youth advocacy are two matters that Success Stories Malachi holds dear to his heart. Since 2015, The United Way Youth Ven- ture partnership with the City of Boston Boston’s youth programs have provided Continuously aspiring to be a voice for has served 800 youth in Boston, age 16- many young Boston residents with the those in need, Malachi is majoring in Po- 20. The collaboration invests in teams of skills and experience they need to pursue litical Science and Communications at youth to develop, launch, manage, and their aspirations in the world. One young Northeastern University, as a TORCH sustain community-benefiting projects, resident in particular is Malachi Hernan- Scholar. It is his hope that he can continue and to provide them with ongoing train- dez, who was born and raised in Upham’s to pave the way for those who can benefit ing, mentoring, and financial support to Corner, a neighborhood of Boston. Mala- from his example, and to one day even actualize their ideas. Working with indus- chi is an active member within his commu- serve as Mayor of the City of Boston. try leaders in the fields of marketing, tech- nity. He has worked with nonprofit orga- nology, community development, and fi- nizations, including The City School and

5 Mayor SOUTH CAROLINA Stephen K. Benjamin Columbia

Columbia Youth Commission •• Designing program evaluation measures to speak directly with members of Colum- that consider aspects of a program that bia’s City Council, key senior staff within The City of Columbia is currently in the matter most to youth; the City, and community leaders who work process of re-establishing its Youth directly in areas that are critical to the Commission, and will be expanding it • • Partnering with youth organizations on community’s quality of life. Members of in order to be both representative of the shared issues; and the Commission will receive an education City of Columbia and also Richland on how local government operates and County at-large. •• Preparing peers for leadership roles, post- responds to the needs of its residents. secondary education, and professional Columbia’s Youth Commission is a program careers. Additionally, the City of Columbia and that provides students with strong leader- Richland County will hold a city and county- ship skills, and more broadly improves The primary purpose of Columbia’s Youth wide election, similar to how typical services and programs for youth within the Commission is to encourage youth involve- municipal and county elections are held. community. Youth Commission members ment, enhance leadership skills, and to voice One youth commissioner will be elected work to bridge the gap between adults and the policy ideas and concerns of Columbia’s from each city district, with three at-large youth, fostering a greater sense of unity, youth. The City also aims to provide civic representatives from the County. communication, and partnership participation and involvement in the commu- throughout the City. The program extends nity while promoting positive activities and Youth Internship Programming a warm welcome to students, between the opportunities for its youth. ages of 14 and 18, to become actively The Columbia Urban League helps Moving Forward involved with the community. administer Columbia’s Science Technology Enrichment Program (STEP), which serves Roles and responsibilities of the Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin believes as the City’s primary internship effort. Youth Commission include: that it is imperative for youth to be involved with their government and local political STEP, formerly known as the Summer Work Experience Leadership Program (SWELP), •• Commenting on legislation and policies process. To create a new avenue for their is a transition from the Summer Work Expe- that impact youth; active leadership, the City of Columbia Youth Commission will meet with the rience Leadership Program, and maintains •• Creating public service programs that Mayor, City Council, and key city staff to an evidence-based, best-practice career improve the lives of youth; discuss how various issues affect the youth development initiative for primarily disad- in the community. vantaged and underserved youth, between •• Monitoring and measuring the effectiveness the age of 14 and 19. of youth programs and policies; Members of the Columbia Youth Commis- sion will be provided with an opportunity

6 Columbia Urban League predominantly minority high schools High School to educate students, teachers, and parents on the importance of STEM, The Columbia Urban League provides and educates them on qualifications work experiences that include exposure for voting. The University of South and expose them to career opportunities to the Science, Technology, Engineering, Carolina also has a group on campus and pathways to success. that works to register college students. and Mathematics (STEM) skills neces- Over the past five years, thanks to the sary to obtain and maintain employment Community Partners leadership of Richland County School in the emerging global workforce. District One, this program has Cigna Insurance recently donated $25,000 expanded to include the arts - taking The program is a way to deter youth to start the Books 2 Boys + Girls program, us from STEM to STEAM - and has from violence and expose them to which provides free books to K-5 students careers that will help them compete in extended to three more schools in the in Columbia, by hosting themed book today’s workforce. The City of Columbia, Lower Richland cluster: Hopkins and fairs. The program has expanded to which has been a sponsor of the program Southeast Middle Schools, as well as include a community policing component, since 2010, has provided 23 sites for students Gadsden Elementary School. to gain valuable work experience. Students encouraging police officers to personally work two weeks per session, from June 11 provide the boys and girls with books. The As of the 2017-2018 school year, The City through August 3. aim is to help build strong, positive rela- of Columbia is also proud to be delivering tionships between participating youth and its signature entrepreneurship and soft Youth Voter Registration Columbia’s police officers. skills programs at CA Johnson, Eau Claire and Columbia High Schools. Columbia has several groups that EngenuitySC has a partnership with regularly and actively assist high Richland County School District One. school students in registering to vote. In June of 2013, EngenuitySC launched One group in particular targets a new program with Lower Richland

7 Mayor TEXAS Mike Rawlings Dallas

Dallas Youth Commission of young people in their cities, as well and government entities a meaningful way as the challenges that they face as future to make an investment in Dallas youth and Over the past 24 years, The Dallas Youth leaders. Participants identify possible its future workforce. Commission has provided a much-needed avenues for youth to become active in voice for students in Dallas, with the purpose their communities; they also help iden- The Mayor’s Intern Fellows Program is an of bringing impactful change to the commu- tify the roles that youth and youth-led eight-week, paid summer internship program nity. The diverse, 15-member board consists organizations can play in current public that introduces Dallas public high school of high school students who are dedicated policy areas. students to careers and employment oppor- to public service and aspire to become effec- tunities in industries and companies where tive future leaders. The North Texas Regional Youth Forum they express interest. Modeled after the pres- showcases examples and projects where tigious White House Fellows, MIFP prepares Since its inception, the Youth Commission youth are already making a difference. In motivated students to become the leaders of has spearheaded numerous projects that 2017, the Forum focused on three major tomorrow. Since its inception, MIFP has include youth forums, community service issues: education, healthy lifestyle, and provided 2,165 students with internships. events, crime prevention programs, an anti- career planning. smoking ordinance, and a youth resources Mayor’s Intern Fellows work in a variety of guide. The Commission maintains a focus Mayor’s Intern Fellows Program fields including accounting, advertising/ on increasing student voter registration and marketing, architecture, banking and finan- turnout in local and national elections, and Dallas has an intensive youth internship cial services, education, engineering, govern- utilizes Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to program for youth to help kick-start ment, healthcare, hospitality, law, public engage directly with youth in the city. their professional careers. The Mayor’s relations, and technology. The program Intern Fellows Program (MIFP) was North Texas Regional provides extensive work-readiness training designed in 2007, with the mission of to all students who apply, and additional Youth Forum helping all Dallas youth pursue a college leadership development to selected interns. education or career. In an effort to realize Young leaders in Dallas have the oppor- this mission, the City of Dallas searched for As internships draw to a close in August, tunity to participate in the North Texas opportunities to help create an educated students and their employers, program spon- Regional Youth Forum. The forum workforce that could build effective orga- sors, and additional area leaders join the provides a platform for young people nizations and strong communities in today’s Mayor at an impressive Intern Fellows to engage in an open dialogue with each knowledge-based economy. The Mayor’s Luncheon celebrating the scholars and their other, across North Texas, on issues of Intern Fellows Program continues to intro- outstanding accomplishments. importance to youth. duce exemplary Dallas high school students Under Mayor Rawlings, the MIFP has vastly Participants engage in interactive and to future careers, professional employment increased the number of internships that it focused discussions to address the needs opportunities, and valuable workplace skills, while providing local companies, nonprofits provides - from 59 in 2001 to 392 in 2017 8 Members of the Dallas Youth Commission

- making it one of the largest internship cutting-edge ideas. The experience is free In 2017, at SMU’S McFarlin Auditorium, programs in the country. Mayor Rawlings aims of charge, and as part of the program, each Orsak gave her TEDx Kids talk titled “Take to provide even more opportunities for young student volunteers 4 hours of service back Your Seat at the Table.” She focused her scholars to gain valuable hands-on experiences to the community. talk on how no one should ever feel as they enter Dallas’ future workforce. ashamed of their age. In her talk, she high- When Heather Hankamer, the Director of lighted her non-profit organization Story Real World Impact: TEDx at Southern Methodist University, Power Inc. and the Dallas Youth Commis- TEDx Kids@SMU saw a news story on Fox 4 that featured high sion. Her talk was an enormus success, and school senior Mary Orsak and her work TEDxKids@SMU is a one-of-a-kind exper- has inspired middle schoolers from across with the Dallas Youth Commission, she Dallas to engage in public service. ence and the first TED-style conference for knew that Mary would have a compelling kids. Middle school students in 6th, 7th, story to tell - a story from a student leader and 8th grade from across North Texas in local government who would undoubt- come to SMU’s campus to engage in discus- edly inspire an audience of middle schoolers. sions pertaining to innovative and

9 Mayor NORTH CAROLINA Steve Schewel Durham

Durham Youth Commission the City of Durham, and in Durham Coun- Each year, Kids Voting Durham provides ty, so that they can be active participants in an authentic voting experience for lo- The Durham Youth Commission (DYC) creating community change. cal, state, and national elections in which was created in 2005 to actively involve K-12 students are given an opportunity to youth in policy issues affecting youth, Youth Empowered Solutions vote on the same candidates and issues as broaden the scope of youth leadership in adults. Students also hold their own candi- Youth Empowered Solutions (YES!) is a Durham affairs, promote experimental date forum and develop a candidate guide. non-profit organization that empowers learning on the functions of government, The DYC partners with Kids Voting Dur- youth, in partnership with adults, to cre- and develop positive civic leadership for ham to help facilitate these initiatives. the future of the community. ate community change. YES! is working with the Office on Youth and the DYC to The Durham YouthWork Internship The DYC is one of 25 chartered North cultivate support and buy-in from city and Program Carolina State Youth Councils and con- county leadership to create opportunities sists of 25-30 high school-age members for youth to lead and to set the future di- Along with the DYC, the City of Durham who are selected through an application rection for Durham. offers an internship program for Dur- process and serve one to four-year terms. ham’s young people. The Durham Youth- YES! is supporting the DYC in redefining Members are taught civic engagement, Work Internship Program offers Durham their vision and scope, and providing train- attend conferences around the state to youth, ages 14-24, the opportunity to ing in racial equity, advocacy, and other collaborate and learn from other youth gain work experience and develop skills skills. YES! is also working closely with councils, and participate in various service through paid summer internships in local the Office on Youth to develop strategies learning initiatives throughout the region. businesses, nonprofits, as well as within that truly empower youth as leaders and City and County government. In 2018, the DYC will work with the City of decision-makers within local government. Durham’s Office on Youth to redefine its Youth Voter Registration Approximately 200 youth, and more than scope and purpose, with an emphasis on 70 employers, benefit from the six-week in- shifting from programming and service to ternship program each summer. The City of Durham’s Office on Youth and the DYC advocacy and youth empowerment. As part Durham is committed to expanding the pro- partner on various initiatives with Kids of this transition, youth will build skills in ra- gram over the next several years with the goal Voting Durham, a non-partisan, non-profit cial equity, advocacy, and other areas. Youth of eventually hosting 1,000 youth annually. organization, and a program of the Dur- participants will work with elected officials ham County Cooperative Extension, that and other Durham youth to create new op- The YouthWork Internship program op- helps young people understand and be- portunities for authentic youth engagement erates through a partnership between the lieve in the power that they have as active in local government. The ultimate goal is City of Durham’s Office of Economic and citizens and informed voters. for youth to have decision-making power in Workforce Development, Durham County, Durham Public Schools’ Career and Tech- 10 nical Education, Durham Technical Com- The City of Durham, with guidance from ate a pipeline of high-quality services from munity College, and Made in Durham. The youth and Public Affairs experts, is actively birth through high school graduation for team takes great care to place students with investigating strategies to increase its so- families living in East Durham. employers based on fit, needs, and interest. cial media presence to engage youth, not During the selection process, all applicants only for the MyDurham program, but also Durham County is an important partner in are interviewed and receive professional for the Durham Youth Commission and a number of youth programs. For example, feedback on their performance. Office on Youth activities. Project BUILD is a gang prevention and intervention program that provides coor- Before internships begin, supervisors re- Community Partners dinated case management and services to ceive training on best practices for super- youth, ages 14-21, who are at high risk of vising and working with youth. Interns The City of Durham has partnered with a gang involvement. The project is based in participate in training sessions on career- number of organizations to assist Durham the Durham County Department of Public readiness skills, financial literacy, resume youth in multiple areas. For example: Go- Health and is a joint project of Durham writing, managing time cards, and other Durham provides public transportation County and the City of Durham. A multi- fundamentals intrinsic to a professional within the City of Durham and operates bus disciplinary intervention team coordinates workplace. Interns receive support from and demand-response service to residents service delivery for youth in this program. summer counselors during placement, and to those visiting Durham. GoDurham and feedback is collected throughout the also helps riders plan transit trips, provides In 2017, the City of Durham and Durham process to help inform ongoing improve- ride-matching tools, and also finds open County jointly created a new youth ef- ments. YouthWork is a core component of vanpools and additional transportation ser- fort to help provide direction for youth the education-to-career system being cre- vices. In August 2018, GoDurham joined programs throughout the Durham area. ated by business, education, government, GoTriangle, GoRaleigh, and GoCary to The effort aims to ensure that all youth in and nonprofits partners. launch the Youth GoPass program. This Durham, ages 5-24, have the resources and program allows anyone 18 years or younger support that they need to succeed in life. The education-to-career system aims to to ride any bus in the region for free. create a system of career pathways and The initiative is focused on three priorities: support mechanisms that enable all Dur- GoDurham also enacted a program that 1) Facilitating authentic youth engage- ham youth to graduate from high school, enables 19-21 year-olds, pursuing their ment in decision-making processes; earn a postsecondary credential, and se- GED, to ride the bus free of charge. Go- cure living-wage work by age 25. Durham is exploring strategies to engage 2) Fostering better alignment and coordi- youth in the Youth GoPass roll-out and Connecting Through Social Media nation among youth-serving programs hopes to create a youth ambassador pro- and services; and gram that will empower youth to promote To improve youth outreach, the City of the program to peers, take an active role 3) Connecting more youth and families to Durham Parks and Recreation Depart- in improving the transit system, and also Durham’s resources. ment launched the MyDurham program, a to develop strategies to increase ridership free, membership-based, after-school pro- among youth. The partnership between the City and gram open to young adults between 13-18 County is taking a data-driven approach years old. Activities and events offered are The City of Durham and East Durham Chil- and partnering with youth, the commu- tailored based on youth preferences. Paid dren’s Initiative (EDCI) partner on a num- nity, and other stakeholders to identify teen Marketing Ambassadors help expand ber of initiatives that support younger chil- needs and achieve desired outcomes. outreach to teens by promoting the of- dren, including preschool programming, ferings on social media and keeping an- recreational opportunities, and a children’s nouncements fresh and relevant. savings program. EDCI’s mission is to cre- 11 Mayor OREGON Shane Bemis Gresham

Gresham Youth Advisory Council Gresham Summer where Mayor Bemis moderated a discus- Works Program sion that focused on safety in schools, The City of Gresham maintains a strong bullying, and technology. The technology Youth Advisory Council (YAC). Council The City of Gresham has a SummerWorks segment took a deep dive particularly into members work to bridge and create an program that provides paid internships for the future of jobs and education within the overall understanding between local youth community youth in every department City of Gresham. and the City by finding creative and effective within the City, supported financially by the ways to educate the public concerning issues County. The program not only provides paid The summit began with a presentation of affecting Gresham’s young people. summer work and resume building, but also “Youth by the Numbers,” where the size, provides a glimpse of the various public political opinions, and facts about young Gresham’s Youth Advisory Council provides service jobs within the City. people in Oregon were presented to partic- a voice to elected officials and City decision ipating youth. The summit utilized an app makers regarding public issues, projects, Fifteen interns total are placed throughout for a live polling feature to gauge the partic- and proposals that have an impact on youth. City departments during the summer. The ipants’ feelings on particular topics and The YAC provides an annual report to the internships provide local youth with hands- questions. The Mayor’s message to the City Council on their projects over the past on experience and a chance to do mean- youth was clear: “Be engaged in your year and their priorities for the community. ingful work for the Gresham community. community and government. If you want During bimonthly meetings, members to see a change, you need to be engaged to of the YAC also focus on leadership and The City offers internship opportunities help make it a reality.” professional skill-building. in areas including: natural resources, recycling solid waste, stormwater, urban Helping Students Learn About Gresham’s YAC has recently spearheaded design and planning, human resources, Civics & Community Involvement two different mural projects in town, in IT, fleet services, community livability, collaboration with the Gresham Police summer recreation, facilities, and parks. Mayor Bemis continues to stay connected Neighborhood Enforcement Team. The Internships are also offered within the City to the local community by personally visiting murals celebrate diversity and unity within Attorney’s Office, as well as in the Office of local high schools and guest-teaching a U.S. the City of Gresham. YAC has also helped Governance and Management. government class. During the class, the organize and achieve two Guinness Book Mayor speaks on issues pertaining to local- of World Records, with members of the Gresham Youth Summit government and includes a long Q&A Gresham community, at the City’s annual session for the students. He plans to Arts Festival. The City of Gresham hosted a Youth Summit in 2018 that was comprised of continue guest teaching at local high schools youth from six area high schools, including annually. alternative high schools, in the area. Approximately 100 youth came to City Hall,

12 Each year, Mayor Bemis and the City Commission on Children Social Media Outreach Council recognize an exemplary youth from and Families The City of Gresham strategically uses each of the eight local high schools. Known Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to pro- as the Great Young Citizen Awards, recog- Two years ago, The City of Gresham estab- mote its youth programs, and to particu- nized youth are honored at a reception with lished a Commission on Children and larly help Gresham’s young people find in- the Mayor and also at a City Council Familes. The Commission met regularly for ternship opportunities. Gresham’s social Meeting. Recognized youth are nominated a year to research and advise the City Council medial platforms are also helpful in high- by their classmates and demonstrate strong on the development, implementation, main- lighting the local projects and efforts of leadership and dedication to public service. tenance of strategies, policies, and programs designed to strengthen and engage Gresh- Gresham’s Youth Advisory Commission. Mayor Bemis and the City of Gresham annu- am’s Children and families. The City has Real World Success ally host elementary students for a “City undertaken multiple recommendations from Day.” Fourth graders spend a unit learning the Commission including: mentoring for Sarah was a high school student that partic- about the City, which includes a field trip to youth, youth programming within the City, ipated in a paid 180-hour internship with City Hall. Mayor Bemis leads a mock council construction of a Boys & Girls Club, Summer the City in the communications and IT for the children and quizzes them on City Kids in the Park (SKIP), Late Night Basket- departments. Sarah participated in a digital facts. The children also have the opportunity ball, and more. media and design program in high school to tour the police and fire departments. and had a passion for photography and One primary recommendation from the graphic design. After her internship, she Gresham Reads Commission was to expand youth mentor- was offered a part-time position in Gresh- ship programs, and despite not having many am’s communications department to extend Mayor Bemis and his wife created a nonprofit programs operating in that space, her internship while she studied integrated program called Gresham Reads. The Gresham got creative and found commu- media at the local community college. program aims to expand literacy among nity leaders who were willing to form a new children, from infants to grade school age. nonprofit organization to spearhead the After a total of 6 months, the City created Eight Gresham restaurants have bookshelves initiative. a new Public Service Apprentice position for the Gresham Reads program. The City for Sarah so that she could continue her stocks the bookshelves with a variety of The City provided office space in the Mayor’s work for the City and continue to build her books from infant to sixth grade reading office at City Hall for the team, and helped skills part-time while attending college. levels. Children are encouraged to read the the new nonprofit raise initial funding to get books while at the restaurants and even take up and running. The program is now thriving, the books home. The program operates changing lives, and continues to pull Gresham through book donations from local book- residents and members of the business stores and residents. community into their mission as they grow.

13 Mayor TENNESSEE Madeline Rogero Knoxville

The City of Knoxville’s of current community efforts in creating themselves, their peers, and their commu- Save Our Sons Initiative education and career pipelines. nity. An application and interview process will be conducted to select the Council. Knoxville has taken enormous strides to Building on the SOS Summit, Mayor Rogero hear the voices of its young people, and hosted the Sons Summit in 2015 to hear from Community Partnerships bring them to the table when it comes to over 150 boys and young men of color, age To sponsor youth involvement in Knox- addressing important social issues that the 10-18, for frank discussions about the barriers ville throughout the year, the City community routinely faces. A key part of they face and the strategies they would like collaborates with community partners this effort has included the development of to see developed to increase opportunities to host back to school events, commu- numerous strategies to amplify youth voices for success. Participants discussed how their nity clean-ups, leadership symposiums, and help them feel both more protected voices could be used to create safe, healthy, and workshops. The SOS Initiative has and heard by their community. and prosperous communities for themselves hosted multiple Sons Summit Empower- and for their peers. Knoxville’s Save Our Sons (SOS) program ment Sessions that focus on strategies to is an incredibly effective and innovative Mayor Rogero empowered the youth help participants overcome barriers to initiative within the City. In 2013, Mayor to plan, market, and facilitate the summit. success. Surveys are distributed in an effort Rogero convened a local advisory group of Data was recorded and evaluated from both to receive insight from the young men to community leaders and stakeholders to summits leading to the launching of several increase the overall effectiveness of City and form the SOS initiative and identify chal- initiatives and pilot programs to enhance community efforts. lenges facing Knoxville’s boys and young opportunities for youth entering the The City’s SOS initiative collaborates with men of color. The program was established 21st-century workforce. additional community partners to help in an effort to eliminate violence-related young people develop leadership skills. One deaths, address opportunity gaps, and to SOS Youth Advisory Council such program is Project Reach, a partnership create a blueprint of success through Currently, SOS is in the process of devel- with the YWCA to provide paid internships programs designed to help participants oping a Youth Advisory Council. The that offer personal and professional devel- think more broadly about the future. Council will consist of eight young men and opment training, as well as community boys, age 14-24. The young men will become To be certain that all stakeholders were service learning projects, to at-risk youth. ambassadors for youth involvement, heard, Mayor Rogero hosted an SOS Summit community engagement, and community Project Hope in 2014. Over 180 participants from more organizing activities. In addition, the young than 60 agencies, organizations, and churches Project Hope is a partnership with men will receive personal and professional participated. The summit helped participants Johnson University that provides a $500 development training and be provided with better understand individual challenges and stipend to teams of high school students a platform to learn how to exercise respon- identify solutions to increase the effectiveness to incentivize them to engage with and talk sibility and ownership over outcomes for

14 Youth involved in Knoxville’s paid internship program

in-depth about their communities. Each students to focus on topics that impact their Interns are provided the opportunity to use team is responsible for designing and deliv- futures, particularly pertaining to college a social media campaign to advertise a City- ering a community-based project that meets and career development. sponsored skate party that promotes unity a critical need within the City of Knoxville. and non-violence. In the past, Mayor Internship Opportunities Rogero, KPD Police Chief David Rausch, The projects can address a range of issues The City of Knoxville offers six- week paid KFD Fire Chief Stan Sharp, City of Knoxville including the criminal justice system, food internship opportunities for young people, Department Heads and their families, and inequality, health disparities, affordable age 17-22, during the summer. Internships over 200 youth from across the City have housing, spatial justice, and economic devel- provide job shadowing opportunities in City participated. opment. The City also partners with Vine Departments, professional development Middle School for the Real Talk Program, classes, community servant leader training, an initiative that encourages and empowers and a community service project.

15 Mayor FLORIDA Hazelle P. Rogers Lauderdale Lakes

Lauderdale Lakes in collaboration with the City of Lauderdale A major component of the 2018 Conference Student Youth Council Lakes Youth Council and the Lauderdale was directed toward exploring alternatives to Lakes Kiwanis Club. violence among young people. The agenda In 2009, the City adopted an ordinance that was designed to showcase successful programs formed a Student Youth Council, composed Through participation in this project, the and promote a positive exchange of ideas of students who attend several of the schools Youth Council has an opportunity to learn among youth. The Youth Council participated in Lauderdale Lakes. The City Commission about the policy-making process as well as in workshops and panel discussions, providing was determined to create the Youth Council the inner workings of municipal govern- helpful solutions in preventing crime and in order to provide an opportunity for the ment. On the day before the event, the violence within the City of Lauderdale Lakes, youth to acquire knowledge of and appre- Council meets with the Mayor, Commis- and throughout the State of Florida. ciation for the American political system, sioners, Executive Staff, the Police Chief, through hands-on participation. and the Fire Chief. Members of the Youth Since participating in the Conference, the Council later have the opportunity to play Youth Council has launched the “Stop the The Youth Council was established to serve each of these roles as part of the program. Violence Campaign” in an effort to reduce the City in a number of ways: to keep the The youth also have the opportunity to tour violence in schools. As they continue their Mayor and Commission abreast of the issues City departments and meet with key leaders efforts, the Council will work closely with that affect the City’s youth; assist with the as they prepare. During the “Mayor and state and local leaders. planning of social, educational, cultural and Commission for a Day” event, participating recreational activities for youth; and work youth conduct a mock Commission Meeting Voter Registration with the Mayor, City Commission, and City and discuss and vote on topics that are In an effort to encourage students to staff to provide service and leadership important to their everyday lives. take part in the political process, the opportunities for the City’s young people. City adopted a resolution to encourage The Youth Council is also incredibly proud residents to take advantage of their oppor- The Youth Council consists of youth, grades of the work that it’s doing with the annual tunity to vote. 9-12, from local schools. The students meet “Preventing Crime in the Black Community five days a week to combine their talents and Conference.” The Conference is a A critical component of the resolution reads: energy to address particular issue areas, and collaborative effort, sponsored by Attorney “Whereas, 18 to 29-year-olds make up an to design youth initiatives that fit their needs. General Pam Bondi, to foster communication estimated 31 percent of the electorate, yet The Youth Council has been involved in and action among practitioners - through on average in the United States turn out to several noteworthy projects. For example, the sharing of innovative ideas and vote less than 50 percent of the time; and the “Mayor and Commissioner for a Day” prevention strategies that have proved Whereas, young people are encouraged to project is an annual program held in May, successful in the community. register to vote and most importantly vote.”

16

Mayor Allison Alexandria Silberberg

Youth Internships and interview, how to conduct themselves in a video that was showcased on the City’s Summer Jobs professional manner, how to value their time Media outlets including Facebook, Twitter, commitments to a job, and how to make the Instagram, the City’s Website, and a local To assist youth with work experience most of their translatable skills from any such cable channel. The children were encour- and career exploration, the City of opportunity. Participants primarily work as aged to share the video with their friends Lauderdale Lakes participates in the clerical and financial services assistants. The and family. Moving forward, the Youth Summer Youth Employment Program youth are left with a wealth of knowledge of Council is currently working on creating its through Career Source Broward. The working within a municipal entity as well as own social media page on Facebook. key purpose of the Summer Youth how to conduct themselves in a professional Employment Program is to provide youth, work environment. This page will highlight the Youth Council’s between the age of 16 and 18, with a nine- accomplishments and encourage additional week summer-long learning experience. The Connecting with Youth youth to become involved with their commu- program includes lessons about how to Through Social Media nity efforts. The City’s Public Information obtain a job, how to keep a job, and how to Officer will assist with this project to ensure turn any job into an investment of time and The City of Lauderdale Lakes has used that the Council is taking safety precautions effort for the future. a variety of strategies to reach youth, and being responsible while developing and including social media. As a back to school utilizing their Facebook Page. Summer Youth Employment Program kickoff this year, summer camp participants participants also learn how to dress for an created an anti-bullying and school safety

17 Mayor KENTUCKY Greg Fischer Louisville

One Love Louisville Love Louisville Youth Edition Action Plan. As 4. Enhance the quality of intervention with a member of the National Forum on Youth individuals and families at the first sign One Love Louisville’s “Be The One to Make Violence Prevention, YIT has committed itself of risk; and a Difference” campaign was born out of the to narrowing a percentage of its efforts to Louisville Blueprint for Safe and Healthy 5. youth and young adults, from birth to age 24. Promote a restorative justice community. Neighborhoods: Phase II. Published in 2015, the Campaign is a call to action to all sectors, Youth Edition Action Plan Members of the Youth communities, and neighborhoods in Louisville. Implementation Team receive: Youth Edition focuses on increasing The main focus of this initiative is to allow positive outcomes for youth who reside •• Strong insight into local government; every resident to realize that they have a stake in Louisville Metro Police Department in the well-being of the City. The Office for (LMPD) divisions one, two, and four. •• Leadership development skills; Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods, along • with its affiliates and partners, strongly Local data illustrates that young adults, • Information about collaborative/group believe that City violence can only be reduced age 18-30 years, lose their lives as a result processes; through a collective and organized effort. of homicide at a far greater rate than any • other age group in Louisville. By focusing • An opportunity to meet leaders through- One Love Louisville is a citywide strategy to particular efforts on youth 24 years of age out government, community, faith, and unite neighbors, provide opportunity for and under, Youth Edition has the potential corporate organizations; youth, and to create healthy objectives to to reduce the number of youth who are •• Knowledge of comprehensive city help negate violence. The City of Louisville exposed to violence, become victims of violence prevention efforts; maintains the belief that it cannot rely on a violence, or, perpetuate violence. few individuals to make a last change, it •• Attendance to various events and activities; takes everyone. Louisville’s Youth Implementation Team (YIT) has five primary goals: •• The opportunity to have their voices/ Youth Implementation Team thoughts/opinions heard publically; 1. Create and promote opportunities The One Love Louisville Youth Imple- for civic engagement; •• Resume building experiences; mentation Team (YIT), includes youth and 2. young adults, 13-24 years of age, who serve Improve conditions that hinder educa- •• The ability to inform and impact others as advisors to the Office of Safe and Healthy tional attainment; on a large scale; and Neighborhoods team and also to One 3. Support economic growth with a focus • Love Louisville. • 40+ community service hours. on the most economically challenged The primary goal of the Youth Implementation neighborhoods; Team is to assist with the execution of the One

18 Members of Louisville’s Youth Implementation Team

Community Partners Louisville Intern Opportunities As a participant in this program, students receive information about job opportuni- One Love Louisville partners include: The City of Louisville also provides a ties that align with age, interests, and Mayor Greg Fischer, Louisville’s Chief of number of internship opportunities for experience. Students are also provided Community Building, Louisville’s Safe and youth. One of the more popular oppor- with tips, tools, and workshops on how Healthy Neighborhoods’ Director, Louis- tunities is called SummerWorks. The to land a job that they are truly interested ville’s Youth Engagement and Communica- SummerWorks program is a collaboration in, as well as how to be an employee that tions Liaison, Junior Fellows, Louisville’s with Louisville Metro Government and an employer wants to hire. The program Metro Public Health and Wellness repre- private and public sector organizations helps youth build a resume and assists in sentative, as well as the Louisville Metro that employ City youth, from age 16-21, polishing their interview skills. Financial Police Department. during the summer months. management resources are also provided to all program participants.

19 Mayor VIRGINIA Levar Stoney Richmond

Mayor’s Youth Academy Youth Council participants are tasked This “real world” setting allows participants with researching issues affecting teens to develop and hone their abilities as young Launched in 2010, the Mayor’s Youth in Richmond, developing a Youth Advocacy leaders. The internships provide partici- Academy works with Richmond’s future Agenda, and presenting their recommenda- pants with an opportunity to think critically leaders, age 14-19, to develop their profes- tions to City officials. about their own actions, and those of others, sional skills. so that they can become better stewards of Real World Success It is the mission of the Mayor’s Youth their community. The Mayor’s Youth Academy to provide development oppor- The Mayor’s Youth Academy has benefited Academy additionally offers summer intern- tunities to youth throughout the City of many young leaders since its inception. ships at a variety of placements, including Richmond, including job readiness training, Three young leaders in particular - Morris, the Mayor’s office itself. leadership development, exposure to entre- Yalik, and Edward - interned with Renew Youth Voter Registration preneurship, mentoring, and post-secondary Richmond during the summer of 2018. career exploration. Through their six week internship, they To promote student civic engagement, worked to convert a 1.5-acre vacant lot, next Mayor Levar Stoney has partnered with The Mayor’s Youth Academy strives to to a local high school, into a community Inspire USA and Richmond Public Schools accomplish the following goals: provide farm designed to serve as a resource for to introduce the Mayor’s Award for voter extensive training for youth, develop healthy food, education, and community registration, which is awarded to the RPS employability skills, promote civic empowerment. high school with the highest voter registra- engagement, expose youth to post- tion rate. In an effort to advance this initia- secondary educational and/or vocational Mayor’s Fellows Program tive, Mayor Stoney has visited all RPS high opportunities, provide professional The Mayor’s Fellows Program provides schools, along with representatives from mentors and instructors in a variety of college and graduate school-aged participants Inspire and the City’s registrar, to speak with career paths, provide safe and construc- with an extended opportunity to develop students about the importance of voting. tive social outlets through supervised their leadership and professional skills. The out of school activities, and encourage Community Partners experience has been designed to help partic- continued school enrollment. ipants integrate the knowledge and experi- The City of Richmond’s youth programs The Mayor’s Youth Academy oversees The ences that they have attained into their studies. have been made possible through significant City of Richmond’s Youth Council as part Participants are expected to immerse them- investment from members of the City’s of its Future Leaders program. Youth selves into public service and make significant philanthropic community. Specific partners Council members participate in leadership contributions toward the completion of an include: Altria, The Community Founda- development activities, higher education important task or project - one that has a tion, The Robins Foundation, and United exploration, local government participation, tangible, positive impact. Way. civic engagement, and community service.

20 Additionally, The Community Foundation Initiatives, which will be piloted for 18 accounts, as does Richmond Public Schools. recently announced the creation of a new months with grant support. On the Additionally, both the Superintendent and shared donor fund dedicated to the support nonprofit side, the City continues to collab- Mayor Stoney have active individual accounts of extracurricular programming in Richmond. orate with a robust provider network that that they use to directly engage with young United Way has announced the dedication includes: NextUp RVA, YMCA of Greater people and the broader community. of staff support particularly to help coordinate Richmond, Communities in Schools, and this programming. the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond.

The Community Foundation has also Connecting Through Social Media granted the City funds to create the position To reach youth through social media, the of Mayor’s Senior Policy Advisor for Youth City has active Facebook and Twitter

21 Mayor MICHIGAN Bryan K. Barnett Rochester Hills

Rochester Hills Youth Council clothing drive to benefit a local nonprofit answer any election-related questions that within the City. Students plan this fundraiser students may have. The City’s Youth Council Since 2005, the City of Rochester Hills to give back to the community throughout also assists the Clerk’s Office in voter regis- has maintained a strong and substantive the winter months. tration in schools. Youth Council program. The Rochester Hills City Council established the Roch- Each member is assigned to a particular Social Media ester Hills Government Youth Council dropoff location within the City during the Social media is used to promote civic partic- (RHGYC) to promote youth involve- clothing drive. Dropoff locations include: ipation in the City, and and to encourage ment in local government through active City Hall, the Department of Public Services, youth participation in a variety of additional participation and the mutual exchange the public library, and several middle and Citywide activities. The City is highly of ideas and experience. high schools in the area. Members of the advanced when it comes to social media Youth Council help donate truckloads of The Council currently consists of 15 student and is known for utilizing innovative strate- winter coats, boots, and other clothing to leaders who are provided the opportunity gies for engaging with the community. The the nonprofit of their choice. to develop professional skills through City of Rochester Hills has grown in the last actively participating with local depart- Rochester Hills Youth Summit decade, and a big piece of that growth ments and directors within the City. emanates from the City’s ability to engage Through the program, participants hone Rochester Hills hosts a Youth Summit directly with its residents. their leadership abilities, and learn how each year to promote leadership among Helping Young Children Engage various City departments operate. middle and high school students in the community. The event offers leadership in Civics & Community Programs Participating students are invited to sit on training for youth, and the opportunity for Each year, The Mayor’s Office works with the dais at City Council meetings and submit young people to listen to different speakers a report from the Youth Council at each each Rochester Hills elementary school to from the state who have experience within plan field trips for the students to visit City meeting. Through the program, Youth local government, media, and law. The Council students engage with other youth Hall. Mayor Bryan Barnett speaks with the summit also includes breakout sessions with students about civic responsibility, and talks leaders, network, and develop their commu- Department Directors within the City. nication skills. Students on the Youth Council to them about how City Hall operates. have the resources and opportunities to Youth Voter Registration These field trips allow students to interact become better leaders than they were before. The City of Rochester Hills works diligently with their City Government first-hand, and Youth Council Community Service to reach voters, specifically by encouraging to speak face-to-face with elected and students to engage in various policy initia- appointed public officials. Each year, Rochester Hills’ Youth Council tives and activities. The Clerk’s Office visits

organizes to launch a few impactful projects. each high school to register voters and One key project includes a community 22 Mayor Bryan Barnett with Members of the Rochester Hills Youth Council

Making a Tangible Difference Young people who participate in the Roch- Nearly all Youth Council alumni who return ester Hills Youth Council often remain to visit reflect on how they have become The City of Rochester Hills has partnered active even after they’ve graduated from the better leaders and citizens by being a part with the Rochester Hills School District and program. It is very common to have Youth of the amazing opportunities that the City the Rochester College Community Founda- Council alumni return in order to volunteer, of Rochester Hills provides. tion to assist in the development and admin- and to speak with current Youth Council istration of the City’s youth programs. members about their experiences.

23 Mayor INDIANA South Bend

South Bend Youth Task Force A Tangible Impact Each year, approximately 40 adults and 40 youth who live in South Bend, Mishawaka, The South Bend Youth Task Force (SBYTF), The Youth Task Force has made a positive or St. Joseph County receive leadership established in 2014, is composed of high impact on the lives of countless youth from training facilitated by top community leaders school student leaders from the South Bend the South Bend area. Jalen Williams, a from both the public and private sectors. The area. The mission of the task force is to current member of the Task Force, said program strives to help youth participants pioneer efforts particularly to curb youth about the program: recognize the leaders within themselves and conflict and vilolence. The Task Force also to commit to a life of personal dedication leads community events and efforts to “Ever since I’ve joined the Task Force, and service to their community. provide a youth perspective on the impact I did not realize it, but it filled a void in that youth violence has on the broader my heart which I did not know was Internship Opportunities community. there,” said Jalen. The City of South Bend also has an Members of the SBYTF attend monthly Jalen has shared how being on the Task Force internship program that is offered to community roundtable meetings in part- allowed him to be more involved in the South high school and college students. In- nership with the South Bend Police Bend community, changing the lives of his terns are given an opportunity to work in Department, the South Bend Common fellow peers. SBYTF members see them- the Mayor’s Office and other de- Council’s “Not in Our Community” initia- selves as lifetime participants and often partments within the City. Through this tive (which works to end the sale and use of return to volunteer their time as mentors program, students are offered real world synthetic cannabinoids), and also South and help facilitate SBYTF activities. training in specialized fields that prepare Bend’s My Brother’s Keeper Community them for future professional careers.. Initiative. SBYTF members share ideas and Youth Leadership South Bend/ discuss ways to engage one another in deci- Mishawaka At Washington High School’s Medical sion making. Participants also help to Magnet Program, students are given strengthen the bond between young people The Youth Leadership South Bend/Misha- internships that allow them to shadow and adults. waka is an intensive student professional health care professionals twice a week development program that offers youth an during the school year. Clinical rotations Members of the Task Force have routinely- opportunity to hone their leadership skills are held in different units at St. Joseph been asked to speak at community events and learn how to become stewards of their Hospital and Memorial Hospital; the and to serve as advisors to more experienced community. site is required to stay within the curriculum community leaders. Youth Council members provided by South Bend Community School One of the program’s primary mission is to have also participated in the South Bend Corporation (SBCSC). Group Violence Intervention Strategy Core develop the capacity and commitment of Group to help identify innovative methods people to recognize, understand, and respond for reducing violence within the South Bend to their community’s needs through civic Community. education, skill-building, and public service. 24 The South Bend Chamber of Commerce registered and involved through canvasing, youth-driven programs, so that his followers INTERN South Bend Region program phonebanking, and helping other South know about the great work happening in increases the quantity and quality of expe- Bend residents register to vote. the community. The South Bend Youth Task riential learning in the South Bend Region. Force has followed suit to communicate This program particularly helps to connect South Bend’s young people have particularly with youth and encourage their peers to businesses with South Bend’s next genera- been engaged in helping to register City serve as leaders within the community. tion of talent. residents to vote. Their desire to get involved in the political process has encouraged Community Partners South Bend Code School members of the South Bend Youth Task The Lawn Maintenance and Mentorship Force to start voter registration drives in their The South Bend Code School is committed Program has been incredibly instrumental schools. Task Force members have worked to making South Bend a “City That Codes” to the success of numerous youth in South with the Department of Voter Registration by eliminating the barrier between people Bend. The Lawn Maintenance and Mentor- to come to schools in South Bend and speak and technology. The program accomplishes ship Program was created to provide the with children to encourage them to vote- this by offering the opportunity for youth to City of South Bend with quality lawn main- when they come of age and register those learn coding skills and to obtain mentorships. tenance for City-owned abandoned lots, who are eligible. In its one year of existence, the South Bend while providing at-risk youth with mean- Code School has worked with seventy- Engaging with Youth ingful work, life skills, and a personal income four area students, including thirty-one on Social Media within a positive learning environment. young men of color. Social media platforms, like Facebook The City chose Greater Impact Lawn Care Dedicated to the positive development of and Twitter, are used to announce promo- through a public bid to administer The all youth, the Code School also works with tions and to interact with youth in the Lawn Maintenance and Mentorship Pro- WorkOne and the Juvenile Justice Center to community. The South Bend Community gram. The initiative focuses on teamwork, provide justice-involved youth with a second School Corporation (SBCSC) uses its responsibility, adaptability, coachability, chance, by offering them invaluable technical Twitter account to make announcements interpersonal skills, time management, skills for building professional careers. on youth programming. Each high school self-image, mental toughness, persever- ance, money management, and a positive Voter Registration also has its own Twitter account where they acknowledge student accomplishments and attitude. The City of South Bend has implemented provide updates on student activities. a number of initiatives to encourage young people to vote. The St. Joseph County Mayor Buttigieg uses his Twitter account African American Democratic Coalition to interact with residents, including youth, has been particularly active in getting youth and often retweets SBCSC tweets, and other

25 THE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF MAYORS

Tom Cochran, CEO and Executive Director

1620 Eye Street, NW Washington, DC 20006 Tel: 202.293.7330 usmayors.org