July 17, 2021
PATERSON, NJ- Since 2006 the Paterson Youth Council (PYC) has claimed the mantle as the “premier voice for emerging leaders ages 15 to 18 who live and/or go to school in Paterson.” Facilitated by the New Jersey Development Corporation (NJCDC), the members are highly visible throughout the city taking part in community service activities, hosting citywide youth forums and political debates, and leading efforts to recognize local youth for their service to the community.
Made up of 30 dynamic young city residents, Paterson Youth Council members meet regularly to discuss a variety of issues that concern and affect their age group. They also meet with city leaders, such as the Mayor, the Paterson Public Schools Superintendent, and members of the City Council and Board of Education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they’ve also hosted virtual forums on important topics like COVID-19, civil unrest, and policing. In doing so, the PYC provides a platform from which Paterson’s best and brightest teens can help influence decisions that affect them and their peers.
Members also perform a variety of community service projects, take trips to different cities and college campuses, and hold the Dr. Martin Luther King Youth Recognition Awards to honor other youth who are doing incredible work in their schools and the community at-large.
Through the yearlong program students are also afforded opportunities to further develop leadership skills, visit college campuses, and, upon successful completion, earn a $500 scholarship.
While the August 6 deadline for applications to the 2021-2022 PYC is fast approaching, local students still have time to be a part of this remarkable program in the coming academic year. PYC applications can be found by clicking here.
Original article can be found here.