Organizational Roles:

In every successful case, responsibility for implementing a program of youth representation in local government is a shared responsibility. Each community will vary in how the program is managed. Some typical roles to consider are outlined here.

UW-Extension

Initiating the Program

UW-Extension faculty and staff can connect with colleagues in other county Cooperative Extension offices with experience implementing programs in which youth are represented on government boards and committees. Resources from the state level , including 4-H Youth Development's Youth in Governance Program and the Local Government Center, are also available from UW-Extension.

Managing Applications

While representatives from all of the partners are generally involved in selecting and placing representatives, UW-Extension may be able to support the application process.

Training and Orientation

UW-Extension Youth Development and Community Resource Development staff may share the responsibility for preparing youth and adults each year as new members begin their terms of service.

Evaluating the Program

UW-Extension has developed an evaluation protocol, which includes youth surveys to document impact on individual representatives and interviews to gain perspective from both adult and youth participants. Survey instruments and other evaluation materials are available from Matt Calvert.

Schools

Recruiting

Teachers and administrators have been crucial in encouraging students to apply for positions and welcoming program representatives to classrooms and assemblies to inform others of the opportunity.

Curriculum Connections

Connecting the program to the classroom allow students to deepen their understanding of governmental processes and perhaps participate more in county board discussions.  It also can help to inform other students and teachers about local government. Participants in Oneida County's Teens Active in Government program provide a regular update to social studies classrooms about issues in local government.

Release Time

Many committee meetings take place during the work and school day, which can be a barrier to student participation unless agreements are worked out ahead of time for release from class. This is a difficult balance for schools and students.

Local Governments

Selecting and Placing Representatives

In Kenosha County, for example, the Extension Committee of the County Board reviews applications and conducts interviews with potential representatives. This practice provides clear ownership of the program to the elected officials themselves.

Identifying Mentors

If mentors are to be assigned, committee chairs or city or county staff may assist with identifying good matches.

Removing Barriers to Participation

Enabling legislation has been passed in some communities--Waupaca has an ordinance which appoints youth as voting members to city committees. Other boards have provided mileage or per diem reimbursement to youth representatives.