It’s always inspiring when we get to interact with young people who are passionate about our community and want to help make it a better place for everybody.
On March 3, Mayor and Council met with the Abbotsford Youth Commission (AYC) Youth Council to discuss local issues facing youth.
The Youth Council is a leadership program for high school students where, among other things, they get to learn more about how municipal government works and how to have their voices heard. This involves meeting with us a few times a year to share their perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue. This year’s Youth Council is made up of 15 students from nine schools, including 10 returning participants.
At the meeting the youth presented on four topics: How well the City’s communications and events reach youth, transportation and traffic safety, supports and barriers to youth mental health resources, and park and trail safety, access and improvements. The students led us through the research they conducted, including surveys of their peers, and then offered us data-informed recommendations.
This was a valuable opportunity for us to gain insight from youth perspectives and have constructive conversations with the next generation. As a City Council, it’s our mission to improve the quality of life for all Abbotsford residents, and that includes youth. Having these thoughtful discussions with young people who are engaged with the community gives us a helpful picture of the issues that matter most to them.
It’s encouraging to know that there are local youth who want to make a difference. While there is a lot they can do affect change in our community, like volunteering or getting involved with service organizations, this year many of them will finally be able to make their voices heard at the ballot box for the first time.
With a municipal election coming this fall, a new cohort of young people will have the opportunity to have input on what the next Abbotsford City Council will look like. It is our hope that the excitement of taking part in the democratic process for the first time will result in a fresh batch of lifelong Abbotsford voters.
After all, democracy is a most precious thing, and its preservation relies on the continued participation of each generation of new voters.
Visit www.abbyyouth.com/programs/leadership-programs/youth-council to learn more about the AYC and the Youth Council and how to get involved.
Abbotsford City Council