In 1980 the City of Tempe recognized the need for youth voice and input into issues that affect them and formed the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission. Forty years later, the Commission continues to play a critical role in developing solutions for persistent issues, such as depression, pregnancy, substance abuse, and violence. Reporting directly to the Mayor and City Council, members include 18–24, eighth to twelfth grade youth who reside in or attend school in Tempe and represent a variety of perspectives and interests across the community.
College and Career Readiness
Marana Cares Mobile
The Marana Cares Mobile navigates the streets of the community, offering nutritious meals, Chromebooks, and literacy activities to students during school breaks and the summer months so that students are better prepared to return to school ready to learn.
Flagstaff STEM City
Founded in 2012 by the Flagstaff STEM Consortium, STEM City convenes STEM-orientated businesses and organizations, schools, educators, and parents to develop and deliver engaging activities that strengthen STEM literacy, develop students’ competencies and employability skills, and ensure a Flagstaff workforce poised to succeed in tomorrow’s economy.
Homeless Youth Connection
Established in 2010 and located in Avondale, Homeless Youth Connection has served more than 2,700 homeless students across the Valley. Staff provide basic necessities, case management, housing, counseling, mentoring, and life skills training to youth, ages 13-21, attending over 100 high schools in 10 districts. These resources help ensure that students have the support necessary to stay in school, earn a diploma, and pursue a brighter future.
Video
College Connect Tempe
College Connect Tempe is a community collaboration designed to increase access to postsecondary opportunities. This free workshop series enlists mentors who provide resources, financial guidance, and support for low-income and first-generation students at critical points in the college application and admissions process.
City Youth Council
In 2017 Mayor Robert Uribe and the Douglas City Council established the first-ever City Youth Council. Council members are students enrolled in public, private, charter, virtual, and home schools, grades eight through 12, who reflect the diversity of the City’s youth. Members review problems facing youth, reach out to the community to collaboratively form potential solutions, and meet with the Mayor and City Council to discuss how to implement the strategies. Members also assist in planning youth and recreation activities in conjunction with the City of Douglas Recreation Department, Public Library, and Youth Activities Fund.
