RACINE — Nominations are now open for the 2024-25 Youth in Governance program, inviting the community to identify the next generation of leaders.
With a commitment to fostering civic engagement and leadership development, Racine County is seeking outstanding young people who exemplify dedication, passion, and a drive to make a positive impact. The Youth in Governance program stands as a testament to the county's belief in the transformative power of youth voices in shaping policies and initiatives that affect our community.
The Racine County Board of Supervisors established the Youth in Governance program in 2013. According to County Executive Jonathan Delagrave, “This is about motivating young leaders from all over our County to contribute their talents to public service now and in the future.”
To participate in Youth in Governance, students must:
- Be a Racine County resident;
- Be a high school freshman, sophomore, or junior at the time of application;
- Have a GPA of 2.5 or greater on a 4.0 scale;
- Be able to attend the monthly meetings, typically occurring once or twice per month;
- Be able to attend the orientation in April, mentor/mentee meeting in May, and the two bus tours of Racine County departments in June.
The Racine County Board has partnered with University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension-Racine County staff to facilitate the Youth in Governance program. “We know from research and experience that when youth are engaged in decision making, they become substantial resources for their communities,” said retired Racine County UW-Madison Extension Area Director Bev Baker. A youth participant stated that “Youth in Governance creates an environment for students to feel confident in their opinions, and to feel safe to voice their opinion. I have never been part of a program where I have felt so empowered to be a leader and to share how I felt on certain issues.”
All youth who are nominated will receive a letter and application materials. Nominations must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, December 15, 2023. To nominate a youth online, please visit:
https://forms.gle/q2d7ePaRubAZwPrA6
Please contact Extension Racine County at (262)767-2929 or uwextension@racinecounty.gov with any questions.
