One City. One Voice. - Releases

The DC Youth Advisory Council (DCYAC) was created by youth and District officials in order for young people throughout the District to have an ongoing voice in the policies, programs and actions within the city. The DCYAC is responsible for influencing change on legislation and policies that impact youth, and for creating more youth and adult partnerships. DCYAC is made up of 32 diverse members from across the District ranging in age from 13-22.

Criteria
All members should meet the following criteria:

District residents between the ages of 13-22.
Must have lived in the District for at least 1year.
Interest in and capacity for developing leadership skills.
Have an interest in local government and politics.
Responsible and able to follow through on commitments.
Desire and ability to communicate effectively.

DCYAC members will be chosen by a Selection Committee, which is made up of a group of veteran council members. The Selection Committee will review all applications, interview selected candidates and make final selections.

Council Structure
The DCYAC is made up of volunteer members selected to seek a broad range of diversity across ethnicity, geography, religion, sexuality, gender and other relevant differences. There can be up to 32 representatives from the Wards, (4 per Ward), and each rep is assigned to a committee-Executive, Finance, Rules, Outreach, or Diversity.

Levels of Membership
Councilmembers are official voting members of the DCYAC. They commit to attending monthly meetings and events; Ward Advisors are liaisons to the community. They have no monthly commitment but are a part of the DCYAC community; Adult Advisors serve as mentors to council members and ward advisors and assist the DCYAC and staff as needed.