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.
Youth Voice
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.