Youth Advisory Committee

Overview

The Committee is tasked with providing input to the City Council and City Administration regarding programs, services, projects and issues. Topics addressed by past Youth Advisory Committees include:

  • Youth Activities & Youth Opinions
  • Drug abuse and underage drinking prevention
  • Environmental / Climate Awareness

The Youth Advisory Committee offers students the chance to:

  • Be decision-makers for youth issues, needs, and opportunities.
  • Build leadership skills.
  • Earn community service hours.
  • Learn about local government.
  • Learn about local philanthropy.
  • Give back to the community.

Members

The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) consists of over 30 high school and middle school youth representatives.

Regular Meetings

  • 6:00 p.m. (in person)
  • 1st or 3rd Monday in September through June
    (Special Meetings called as needed in July and August)
  • Portage City Hall
    7900 S. Westnedge Avenue
    Portage, MI 49002

Special Events

The Youth Advisory Committee is very active in the community and organizes several city-wide events.  The YAC also volunteers at the Portage Community Center and learns about the role of local government.

  • Snow Party - Saturday, February 5, 2022 @ 12 - 3 pm
    • FREE
    • Oakland Drive Park (7650 Oakland Dr.)
    • Bring-your-own cardboard sled competition, Snowman building contest, scavenger hunt
    • No Snow / No Problem - alternate activities planned
  • Green-A-Thon - SUNDAY, April TBD, 2022
    • FREE
    • Portage City Hall Parking Lot & Front Lawn (7900 South Westnedge)
    • Partnering with the Portage Farmers Market for a sneak peak before the Market starts in May.
    • Features music, games, free tree seedlings, face painting, activities, giveaways and numerous representatives from local organizations and businesses to provide entertainment and education about environmental ideas that can be utilized at home or work.  
    • The YAC is hosting this event to raise awareness of environmental issues affecting the citizens of Portage and to provide opportunities to become more ecologically friendly.
    • Vendor Sign-up
  • Public Safety Summer Movie Night - Friday, August TBD
    • FREE
    • Public Safety demonstrations/display and movie night in the park!  It’s like "Touch a Truck" but Public Safety style! 
    • Refreshments available for purchase. 

Youth in Government Participant Sign-Up

Please provide the requested information in our online form, to take part. A parent/guardian release form will be mailed to applicants and must be completed and returned prior to participation in the program. 

The primary appointment period is in the month of May. Applications are always welcome but will be held until the next available appointment period. Terms begin July 1.