Youth Council

Jackson Youth Council Group photo


About the Youth Council 

High school students who would like to make a difference in their local government are invited to serve on the newly-created Jackson Youth Council. 

The 15 member council is tasked with making recommendations to the City Council concerning the needs of children, families, and young adults in Jackson. Members will also work on innovative programs and initiatives that will improve the quality of life for young residents and families in the community. The council is administered by the Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

Mission Statement

Creating opportunities for youth to cultivate valuable leadership skills through youth-led advocacy, improving the quality of life for current and future young residents of Jackson and inspiring them to be involved in local government.

Vision Statement

The vision of the City of Jackson Youth Council is to promote civic engagement among youth in the City of Jackson. The Youth Council will create opportunities for youth to cultivate valuable leadership skills and exercise them through a wide variety of youth-led community service, advocacy, and activism initiatives. The Youth Council is designed to empower and equip generations of young people to create positive change in their communities for the future of Jackson. 

Meetings and Agendas

 The Youth Council meets the first Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m., unless otherwise decided, in the 10th Floor Conference Room of Jackson City Hall, 161 W. Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49201. 

The latest meeting information is posted on the City Meeting and Event Calendar. Future meeting agendas will be posted in the Agenda and Minutes Center.

How to Apply 

The Youth Council is open to high school students who live in the City of Jackson. A completed application, 300 word essay, and teacher recommendation must be submitted to qualify for the review process. The Youth Council will interview and appoint members to the council. An online application can be completed and submitted through the City website.

A downloadable application (PDF) can also be downloaded and printed from the City website. Email completed application, essay, and teacher recommendation to hrc@cityofjackson.org or submit in person at the City Clerk's Office in Jackson City Hall, 161 W. Michigan Ave. 

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