Youth Advisory Council convened for District 3

October 4, 2012

Summary

Initial meeting raises issues of concern to teens

Story

Last Saturday, King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert convened the first Youth Advisory Council for Council District 3 and welcomed the first half-dozen teens who want to become more informed and involved with public issues and government.

The middle school and high school-age youth met at the Fall City Library and reviewed the roles and operation of government at all levels, followed by discussion of how to engage other youth on issues such as safety, homelessness, substance abuse and education. The initial gathering included students from Redmond High School, Skyline High School, Beaver Lake Middle School, Issaquah High School and Sammamish High School.

The program included a brainstorming session about outreach strategies for the Safe Place program to help connect teens on the street with services and shelter, and the new Smart911 program that allows residents to create online profiles that help first responders in an emergency.

“I am extremely interested in the issues that young people face today, and in how to get youth involved in the public policy decisions that will affect them and their friends and families for many years to come,” said Councilmember Lambert. “Through this Council, young people not yet old enough to vote will have an opportunity to learn about and engage in effective ways to contribute their thoughts.”

The Youth Advisory Council plans to explore various topics with guest speakers and programs. Applications are being accepted for additional members of the Youth Advisory Council. Anyone interested in joining the council can contact Councilmember Lambert’s office for more information at (206) 296-1003 or Kathy.Lambert@kingcounty.gov.