CCYS’ Youth Advisory Council (YAC) provides feedback of CCYS’ programs, policies, and procedures to ensure they are youth-informed and youth-centered. Additionally, YAC engages local youth to promote community advocacy.
CCYS established a Youth Advisory Council (YAC) to collaborate with staff members at a variety of agencies in the Big Bend in order to inform agency policies, procedures, and outreach efforts while developing leadership skills and providing service engagement opportunities to its members. The inaugural Youth Advisory Council was charged with the task of offering a youth-centered approach for CCYS, conducting a service project of their choosing, and volunteering alongside CCYS in the community.
Click the video below to learn about YAC’s Anti-Bullying mural.
Having a youth-centered approach is vital, as it not only ensures that CCYS is providing the best possible care to youth and families receiving services, but also helps the agency do so in a way that appeals to our clients. Members of the Youth Advisory Council volunteer at CCYS events such as our annual Sleep Out, Family Appreciation Event, Breakfast Outreach, and Meals on Wheels outreach throughout their service year. This allows youth an opportunity to experience our mission firsthand while learning how CCYS impacts the lives of their peers. Furthermore, it gives youth the necessary knowledge to provide feedback on the many programs and services of CCYS.
The Youth Advisory Council is comprised of a diverse group of students ages 12-21, who attend either a Leon County School, are homeschooled, or enrolled in a Tallahassee College/University. Members meet bi-monthly during their service year to discuss an array of topics including diversity, community engagement, and activism. Youth Advisory Council Members also hear from various guest speakers including CCYS staff, board members, and community leaders during their service year. These efforts help YAC members develop leadership, teamwork, and self-awareness skills.
