Holyoke Youth Commission.

The mission of the Holyoke Youth Commission is to bring about positive change in Holyoke by developing the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking of its members and proving that Youth can be the change-makers in a community.

The Holyoke Youth Commission is comprised of approximately 20 youths, ages 13-21, who reflect the economic and racial diversity of Holyoke, and represent multiple neighborhoods and wards. The Holyoke Youth Commission meets weekly to work on projects and programs to meet the needs of Holyoke youth.

Background.

The Holyoke Youth Commission was initiated in the year 2000. The idea to form a Holyoke Youth Commission started as a result of discussions with youth in 1999 during the development of the City’s Master Action Plan. Youth in the city said that they wanted a voice in making decisions that affect young people. Past accomplishments inlcude: Hosting "Speak Outs" on the MCAS and racism, coordinating a youth Q & A session for candidates running for Holyoke City offices, implementing an annual youth-philanthropy mini-grant opportunity for the City's youth,

Today.

The Holyoke Youth Commission is currently working on several initiatives to create a better Holyoke:

Creating a drug-free community with the Holyoke Youth Task Force Drug Free Communities committee

Creating a healthier community as a partner with the Holyoke Food and Fitness Council.

Creating a safer community partnering with the YES (Youth Empowered to Succeed) Violence Prevention Initiative.

Creating a vision with the community by coordinating the Community Vision Map process

For more information about the above intitiative or to get involved, please contact coordinator Rebecca Masters at (413) 532-6247, extension 108 or email rmasters@girlsincholyoke.org.

Tomorrow.

The Holyoke Youth Commission recruits in late spring and brings in new members in the summer or fall. We make announcements on school intercoms and conduct outreach at schools, after school programs, and other community-based organizations.

Throughout the year, the Holyoke Youth Commission works on various community projects and solicits the help of other youth and youth groups. If you or your youth group are interested in learning more about Holyoke Youth Commission projects, please contact Rebecca Masters at 532-6247, extension 108 or email rmasters@girlsincholyoke.org.