The Austin Youth Council’s mission is to provide an outlet for Austin area youth to amplify their voice in their communities while generating changes within their respective community organizations.
About the Youth Council
Former Mayor Lee Leffingwell and City Council members by way of Resolution and the City of Austin initiated the Austin Youth Council in 2011. This was a focused way to bring Austin’s youth into civic engagement.
The Youth Council is made up of about 70+ high school students who represent the majority of the high school population of the City of Austin. The council is structured as a general assembly with 10 elected council members that represent each of the 10 districts. Members meet once a month and discuss issues concerning youth as well as listen to presentations from City staff and outside organizations in the city.
Benefits of being an Austin Youth Council Member
As a member serving on the Austin Youth Council, members learn Robert’s Rules of Order and how to interact in Council Meetings, Committee Meetings, or General Assembly Meetings. Serving on the Council not only teaches civic engagement, communication skills, and how to be an effective leader. Members who serve on the Austin Youth Council have the chance to attend state conferences and meet with their elected Council members in order to discuss issues facing the youth in their district.
“Having an opportunity to be a part of something that has value to our city and community. I love the fact we do what we do best as the youth which is being together and helping our local communities and other conflicts going on in them. I look forward to actually make an impact. ” – Nour Nour., 2023-2024 AYC Member
Youth Council Meetings
The Youth Council meets monthly following a structure meeting pattern of three types of meetings: Council Meeting, Committee Meeting, or General Assembly Meeting. Members discuss issues concerning youth as well as listen to presentations from City staff as well as organizations outside of the City of Austin. The Council attends state and national conferences every year, with one always taking place in Washington, D.C. The Youth Council's district lines match up with the current city council district lines and each Elected Member meets with their City Council member.
Apply for Austin Youth Council
Join your fellow high schoolers in making a difference throughout your city! For instructions on how to apply, please click on the link to the application down below. Applications must be submitted properly by following instructions listed in the application.
The 2024-2025 Application will be uploaded in April 2024. Stay tuned for updates!
For more information, please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene at chiquita.eugene@austintexas.gov