On Saturday, July 19, over 40 Youth Advisory Council members from the City’s YouthSource Centers and their leading staff met at Cal State Los Angeles to present their year’s community projects and learnings. General Manager Carolyn Hull kicked off the event with opening remarks, reflecting on the importance of youth leadership against the background of the unprecedented series of current events happening across Los Angeles. These remarks set up this year’s theme of “Building Connection.”
This theme was continued throughout the rest of the day, as the young leaders presented their recommendations for service delivery and how they have positively impacted their centers and communities. Many of the projects focused on ensuring communities knew about the different programs and opportunities available at their YouthSource Center. One highlight was Catholic Charities/Archdiocesan Youth Employment Services presenting their community resource asset map. Many of the other councils expressed interest in wanting to create one for their community, or wanted to know how to be added. These are the types of systemwide projects we are looking to facilitate through the Youth system.
The Youth Advisory Council initiative was launched in 2022 in response to youth reporting that they did not feel like their voices were being heard when the City’s youth-serving programs were being created and implemented. All YouthSource Centers receive $10,000 in funding to support the development of young leaders and community projects.
The City of Los Angeles has many programs and benefits designed specifically for youth ages 16-24. EWDD's Youth Services offer resources to finish high school, enroll in a college or university, and obtain either a first job or begin a stable career path. There are also several YouthSource Centers located across the LA region dedicated to helping our young adults achieve their goals. To find out more, visit a center near you today.
This story is from the July 2025 Updates Newsletter. Get monthly EWDD news and information delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for Updates via Constant Contact.
