The Westchester County Youth Bureau is seeking young people ages 13 to 21 to represent Westchester County on the new New York State Governor’s Youth Council. Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced that he is establishing this Youth Council which will be comprised of one representative from each county in the state – totaling 62 members.  Members of the NYS Governor’s Youth Council will provide recommendations to the Governor and other policymakers on many different issues, including:

  • Education
  • Cyberbullying
  • Cultural diversity
  • Youth violence
  • Alcohol and other drugs such as tobacco, vape, and opioids
  • Juvenile justice
  • Environmental justice
  • Matters concerning young women and girls, including sexual assault and harassment, female empowerment
  • Civic engagement
  • Economic opportunity and wage parity

County Executive George Latimer said: “Westchester County is home to young people who are extremely diligent and passionate about societal issues and have already begun to make changes at the local level. To have the opportunity to participate on a statewide task force, travel to Albany and focus on specific policy issues will be a worthwhile experience that will benefit us all.”

Westchester County Youth Bureau Director Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said: “This is a unique opportunity for Westchester’s critical thinkers and youth leaders to lend their passion and talent on social issues that have already been demonstrated locally to a regional and statewide platform. I am particularly excited that the Westchester County Youth Bureau has been tasked to manage the recruitment and selection process, but most notably interface with youth who are interested in furthering their advocacy and leadership skills.”

The Youth Bureau will search far and wide for applicants. Three applicants will be selected to advance to the final selection process in Albany, where one youth will be selected. Once selected, the Youth Council will convene in Albany for orientation and training and will then be divided into regional teams to focus on specific policy issues.

Interested youth should submit an application by December 23, 2019 through the online portal available at https://nysylc.secure-platform.com/a/. The application includes an essay and a video demonstrating their interest in one of the council’s focus areas. Candidates will be selected on their character, leadership skills, academic achievement, civic engagement, and service to their community.

Please contact the Westchester County Youth Bureau at or (914) 995-2745 with questions.