Applications are currently being accepted for Dane County’s Youth Governance Program (YGP) – a program that provides area high school students with real-life experience working as a member of a county committee.
The program, for students who will be in grades 10-12 in fall of 2021, allows youth to serve on a county committee while developing life skills and youth-adult partnerships. YGP began in 2012, and since its inception, approximately 100 Dane County students have participated in the program, according to a press release from Dane County.
“I encourage our county’s youth to apply to this unique program because it’s a great way to get involved in and learn about our community,” Dane County Board Chair Analiese Eicher said in a statement.
Students are paired with a County Board member and serve on either a committee of the County Board or on a board or commission, such as the Food Council or the Park Commission. Youth members have a non-binding advisory vote but are given the same opportunities for committee participation and involvement as elected County Supervisors.
The recruiting process will take place throughout the summer and the program, which is facilitated by the UW-Madison Extension Dane County office, will start in September. Students in the program must have the ability to commit 6-8 hours per month for YGP responsibilities, including attending 2-3 weeknight meetings each month.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to virtually attend a Dane County Board committee meeting before they decide whether to apply to YGP. More information on Dane County meetings can be found here.
