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Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)

What’s the focus of the YAC?

The YAC, comprised of high school students in grades 9-12 from acrossMiami- Dade County, serves as the youth voice of The Children's Trust. Through active participation, workshops and hands-on experience, YAC members learn critical leadership and advocacy skills, especially relating to children and families. They familiarize themselves with their communities and together with advisors develop service-learning projects that benefit those communities. We seek to convene a diverse group of students and extend an enthusiastic invitation to youth with special needs.

Who can apply and how do I apply?

Any high school aged student living in Miami Dade County can apply. Youth Advisory Committee

What does the YAC do?

We’re about real experiences and making a difference. In addition to (virtual) monthly regular meetings, we host game nights, field trips, community service projects created by the youth, host Q & A with Miami-Dade leaders, present opportunities for community service hours, leadership skills throughout the academic year. We host an annual trip to Tallahassee to participate in Children's Week. (This may be virtual in 2021.) There, we experience the political process firsthand. Our intent is to build a strong team, develop leadership skills and provide valuable life experience and exposure for participants.

How do we meet monthly?

We will meet virtually for 2020. In 2021, if we are able to meet in person, there are six YAC sites throughout the county; participants can choose their location:

North - North Dade Regional Library, 2455 NW 183rd Street, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Central - The Children’s Trust office, 3150 SW 3rd Avenue, Miami, FL 33129
South- South Dade Regional Library, 10750 SW 211 Street, Miami, FL 33189
Far South - Homestead City Hall, 790 N Homestead Boulevard, Homestead, FL 33030
West - FIU, Office of Engagement, PC 100, 11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL33199
West Kendall - West Kendall Regional Library, YOUMake Space, 10201 Hammocks Boulevard, Suite 159, Miami, FL 33196

Is there a cost associated with participation in the YAC?

No, all YAC program-related expenses are covered by The Children’s Trust.

Does participation in the YAC count toward my community service hours?

Absolutely! Activities related to YAC membership are credited as community service hours and we provide service hours letters to each participant.