- Commenting on legislation and policies that impact youth
- Creating public service programs that improve the lives of youth
- Monitoring and measuring the effectiveness of youth programs and policies
- Coming up with program evaluation measures that consider aspects of a program that matter most to youth.
- Partnering with other youth organizations on shared issues
- Preparing peers for leadership roles, postsecondary education and career.
SELECTION PROCESS OF THE YOUTH COMMISSIONERS:
The City of Columbia will hold a city and counties-wide (Richland and Lexington) election, similar to how typical municipal and county elections are held. One youth commissioner will be elected from each city district, with three at-large representatives from Richland County and two at-large representatives from Lexington County. There will be a total of nine (9) people on the Youth Commission.
Eligible candidates are students ages 14-18. High school seniors graduating in June 2019 will not be eligible for elected office.
This election will be unique in that all 14-18-year-olds in Richland and Lexington counties will be eligible voters. Youth commissioners will campaign to voters just as an adult candidate for elected office does.
Term + term limits:
Each youth commissioner will serve a one (1)-year term. Commissioners may serve up to two (2) terms as long as they are younger than or exactly 18 at the time of the election and/or still enrolled in high school.
Purpose: | To encourage youth involvement in the community, enhance leadership skills and voice policy ideas and concerns of our City's youth. |
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Mission: | To provide civic participation and involvement in the community while promoting positive activities and opportunities for youth in Columbia. |
Components
Policy: | It is imperative for our youth to be involved in their local government. To create that avenue, the Columbia Youth Commission will meet with the Mayor, City Council and key city staff to discuss how various issues affect their peers. |
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Networking: | Members of the Columbia Youth Commission are provided an opportunity to dialogue directly with members of City Council, key senior staff within the City of Columbia and community leaders that work directly in areas that are critical to the community’s quality of life. |
Education: | The Commissioners receive an education on how local government operates and responds to the needs of a community. |
Membership:
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