New York holds YLCS to celebrate youth in Communities

New York City has held a Youth Leadership Council Summit to celebrate the culmination of service by 1,500 youth in communities with the support of community organizations and City agencies.

The event was held on Wednesday June 8, 2022, for the first time since 2019, with more than 115 independent groups participating across the five boroughs — the largest municipal youth leadership program in the nation.

During the summit hosted at NYPD Headquarters, the YLCs network of citywide presented community asset maps and action plans to Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, and Chancellor David C. Banks, as well as other City leaders for feedback and consideration.

“Let’s recognize the leadership, the community engagement, and everything else these 1,500 young people are doing to have their voices heard and be a part of the decision-making process,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

“The young people serving on the NYC Service Youth Leadership Councils exemplify what it means to be New Yorkers and to ‘Get Stuff Done’ for this city, and so I thank them for their good work, as well as the community-based organizations that have stepped up to support them every step of the way.”

“I want to thank the 1,500 young people in the NYC Service Youth Leadership Council program for every necessary act of service done for your city. Your leadership has changed the hearts, minds, and spaces around you,” said Deputy Mayor Wright.

“Change starts with strong partnerships, and I am proud of the community-based organizations and City agencies that connected with youth to support their efforts.”

“Youth are not just our future, but our present – and their leadership now is key to an inclusive democracy where we all thrive. We are proud of every youth and adult partnership for creating action plans and building community assets locally,” said Chief Service Officer Laura Rog.

“Our city has made a powerful commitment to youth voice as evidenced in the 115 youth leadership councils in every borough.”

“In order to build a strong, vibrant city, our focus must be on the next generation of New Yorkers,” said Commissioner Sewell.

“That’s why the NYC Service’s Youth Leadership Council program is so vital, and the NYPD – through our Youth Coordination Officers in every precinct and public service area citywide – is immensely proud to work with these dedicated community partners. I want to thank the Mayor’s Office, NYC Service, the NYC Department of Education, and everyone who works to empower New York City’s youth.”

“Youth are full of hopes and dreams! When youth leaders have opportunities to access programs like the NYC Service Youth Leadership Council Program, those dreams become tangible goals. I commend every youth, adult, and community partner for striving to make our City better and I hope you all to continue to build a brighter future for generations to come,” said Chancellor David C. Banks.

Youth leaders and their councils attended the summit to showcase action plans to address issues impacting their community.

YLCs focused on impacting community safety, youth mental health, and environmental sustainability, among an array of topics areas.

Throughout the year, youth leaders addressed local issues by completing acts of service, such as educational workshops, neighborhood beautification, or advocating for change through art and media.