City of Santa Cruz Youth Liaison 2025/26 Term

Are you a high school student living in the City of Santa Cruz who is curious about how city decisions are made? Apply to become a Youth Liaison today!

Overview

The Youth Liaison serves as a bridge-builder between youth and local City Council members, supporting the co-creation of solutions by ensuring youth voices are heard in local government decision-making. The Youth Liaison will encourage their peers to participate in the local government process.

Benefits

• Earn a stipend for your time and leadership.
• Deepen your understanding of how your city supports its community.
• Strengthen your leadership and communication skills.
• Build meaningful connections with city staff, elected leaders, and peers.
• Join a network of youth leaders shaping change across the county.
• Make a real impact in your community.

Commitments

• 5-8 hours monthly for 10 months (school year).
• Collaborate regularly with United Way staff and your City Council Mentor.
• Engage with local leaders and community events.
• Attend City Council meetings to bring youth voices forward.
• Participate in workshops to build leadership and advocacy skills.

Application

Complete the City of Santa Cruz Youth Liaison Application by September 16, 2025.

Questions? Contact Sookie Ramos at sramosunitedwaysc@gmail.com or (831) 319-2364.

United Way’s Santa Cruz County Youth Action Network is a countywide collaborative of youth and adults working together to promote youth well-being by connecting young people to resources and opportunities to create positive community change and elevating youth voices in decision-making.

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