The St. George Youth City Council (SGYCC) operated as a self-directed group of teens charged with representing and advocating for youth throughout the community and to the St. George City Government.
Council Objectives and Values
As a collaborative effort, the group's main objectives included developing future leaders, providing a formal voice to youth, engaging in civic education and community service, and improving conditions for local youth. The council worked while promoting St. George City values of integrity, innovation, efficiency, professional and personable services, teamwork, and excellence.
Learning Local Government Operations
Members of the SGYCC learned about the successes and challenges of local government and gained an understanding of its operations and functions. Participants took an active interest in addressing issues related to community events, youth issues, and local affairs.
Skill Development and Community Service
Participation in the council helped improve members' abilities in management skills, project development, and leadership roles. The group planned and executed various community activities, such as food drives, Christmas activities, community dances, and projects that collected money for worthy causes.
City Council Engagement and Socializing
The council also participated in St. George City Council meetings at times to report on its activities and understand the workings of the City Council. Additionally, the YCC planned recreational activities for its members to build friendships and teamwork.
Eligibility Requirements for Students
To participate in the Youth City Council, students were required to be between 14 and 18 years of age, enrolled in a middle or high school, and living within the City of St. George. There was no fee to join the council.
Time commitments included attending 80% of weekly meetings as well as bi-weekly meetings held during the summer before the school year started. Meetings typically lasted between one and one and a half hours. Members also fulfilled other time commitments for service projects or planned projects scheduled by committee chairs or project supervisors.
Each year, the Youth City Council selected officers, which allowed members to be responsible for specific portfolios. Any member was also eligible to serve as a project manager for council activities, leading a committee and directing the council during those projects.
