Young Leaders Grow

One of the things that makes Meridian special is the way we invest in people, especially the next generation of leaders. I’m continually impressed by the talent, kindness, and drive of our teens, and I’m grateful for the many ways they show up for their schools, their neighbors, and our community. That’s why I’m proud of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council (MYAC). At its core, MYAC is about helping young people build real leadership skills, and then putting those skills to work through meaningful projects and activities throughout the school year. 

MYAC focuses on three key areas: leadership development, government affairs, and community service. Members attend regular meetings at City Hall after school where they learn time and project management, public speaking and other professional skills that translate directly to higher education and future careers. Just as importantly, MYAC helps students understand how local and state government works by inviting officials to speak and by supporting student-driven civic projects that reflect what teens care about most. And at the heart of it all is service: students identify community needs, develop responses, and participate in volunteer efforts—both through MYAC-led projects and alongside community partners.

The students elect their own leaders and collaborate as a group to come up with shared goals for the year, so every cohort looks a little different, and the activities that take place year after year change to reflect the ideas and interests of the students, Over the past two decades, MYAC youth have had a tangible impact on our community. If you’ve ever attended our annual Trunk-or-Treat event, used the colorful recycling bins in downtown Meridian, or participated in service projects for Do The Right Day, then you’ve taken part in something that started out as a MYAC project. 

That’s why I’d love to have your help in finding students willing to further that impact and be a part of the next chapter in Meridian’s future. MYAC is open to high school students in grades 9–12 who live in Meridian or attend a school in Meridian. If you know any students who want to grow as a leader, meet other students who care about their community, and make a difference in practical ways, please encourage them to come and check out MYAC. All they have to do is fill out the online form, then show up at our in-person meetings. Meetings are generally held every other Monday, with the next two on February 23 and March 9 from 3:45 to 5:15 p.m. at Meridian City Hall (33 E Broadway Ave). All future meeting dates may be found on the MYAC webpage, and questions about the program may be directed to [email protected].