Young citizens who are interested in public service can make an impact on the state level.
OTTUMWA, IOWA -- The State of Iowa Youth Advisory Council is seeking applications for 2010-2011.
The council is comprised of 21 members between the ages of 14 and 20 who will get leadership and civic engagement experience. And the council discusses issues with state lawmakers concerning of Iowa's youth
State Senator Keith Kreiman (D-Bloomfield) said that in years past, the Youth Council has recommended changes in legislation...and some of those changes were approved into law.
"I suspect that it's not one of these boards that some of us have belonged to in the past, that meet and really don't do much. But I think this one you go, you have to expend some effort, some energy. But you do get things done and that is important," Senator Kreiman said.
He added that the purpose of the council is two-fold.
"One is to get kids/young people involved in their communities," Senator Kreiman said. "And two: to get their ideas on what we can do for things like economic development, and keeping young people in the State of Iowa."
Kreiman also discussed the amount of applications.
"I think there is a fair amount that apply but I do think that people in this area would have just as good of a chance as anybody to make it onto the council to be picked. So if I were a young person interested in my community, I would be trying to get on this one," Senator Kreiman said.
Serving on the council is a two-year commitment in which members are expected to attend quarterly meetings.
The deadline for applications is June 11th.
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