Youth Council

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 Thursday of every month at 6 p.m., unless otherwise decided, in the 2nd Floor City Council Chambers of Jackson City Hall, 161 W. Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49201. The following is a list of 2023 meeting dates:
  • Jan. 5
  • Feb. 2
  • March 2
  • April 6
  • May 4
  • June 1
  • July 6
  • Aug. 3
  • Sept. 7
  • Oct. 5
  • Nov. 2
  • Dec. 7                                                    

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 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.