It goes without saying that decisions made by our elected officials in Congress have a huge impact on people of all ages, but teens in particular may feel left out. Whether or not we like the policies coming out of Washington, we're too young to vote for the people creating those policies that ultimately affect us—and that can be frustrating.
Well, that's all about to change... because now, we can make our voices heard!
The office of Congressman Mondaire Jones is launching a Youth Advisory Council in order to provide high schoolers who live in the 17th Congressional District with the opportunity to actively learn about Congress. Students will learn about the bill-making process through hands-on activities and presentations, and the program will culminate with a virtual presentation to the Congressman and members of the public by the students. The presentations will be based on topics of interest selected by teens in the beginning of the program.
The program will run for a full school year beginning in September and culminating in June. And the homework isn't bad, either! Students will meet once per month for 1 to 1.5 hours, and each meeting will be centered on a different topic and led by the staff member responsible for that issue area. (But attendance is key; if you miss three sessions, you won't be able to continue with the program.)
The best part is that there are only two requirements:
- you must live in the 17th Congressional district
- you must be in high school by fall of the new school year (sorry, middle-schoolers—try next year!)
Interested students must complete the registration form below and provide one letter of recommendation. The deadline to apply is Friday, September 13, 2021—get the word out!
Congressman Mondaire Jones's Youth Advisory Council
- When: Monthly during the school year
- Where: Virtual
- Cost: Free
- Deadline: Friday, September 13, 2021
- Register: HERE >>
- Email questions to: NY17INFO@mail.house.gov