Calling all teens! Apply to the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s inaugural Teen Advisory Council

At the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, we believe young people have the power to change the world. That’s why we’re so excited to open applications for our Association’s first-ever Teen Advisory Council, a youth-led governance body that will play an active role in promoting and improving our teen programming.

Representing Y teens throughout Chicagoland, our Teen Advisory Council gives youth the chance to collaborate with civically engaged peers throughout Chicagoland while developing the skills they need to be positive change agents at school and in their neighborhoods.

Teen Advisory Council members will play a key role in real-world projects that benefit the community, from planning the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s inaugural Teen Summit to volunteering on World Social Justice Day. Through these efforts, teens will practice problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and organization—key competencies that’ll prepare them for college, career, and beyond.

“When thinking about the Y’s role in building brighter futures, it’s essential that teens have a seat at the table,” said Eric Werge, Community Schools Initiative Executive Director. “We can’t wait to meet our Teen Advisory Council and empower them to do great things.”

Youth aged 13-18 who have completed at least one year of Y programming are eligible—and encouraged!—to apply. Applications for the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Teen Advisory Council are due by Friday, January 7. To learn more, check out our informational flyer and application form.