Teens sought for new Youth Action Council

HandsOn Suburban Chicago is pleased to announce the formation of a Youth Action Council beginning in this spring. HOSC is currently seeking socially active high school students to serve as its inaugural members.

A Youth Action Council is a committed group of young people, who will serve as advocates for youth volunteering in their communities. The HandsOn Suburban Chicago Youth Action Council will participate in a Youth Leadership Academy, which will combine instruction with hands-on service learning. Council Members will lead monthly activities for elementary school students and their families, as well as plan and execute their own projects that will address real community needs. Thus, the impact of the YAC will be twofold: they will lead and manage meaningful service projects, and they will teach younger children the value of volunteerism. HOSC’s Youth Action Council will also be responsible for distributing $1,000 worth of funding to area nonprofits.

Current high school students and rising eighth-graders are eligible to apply. Students with previous volunteer and/or leadership experience are encouraged to apply. YAC members must commit to 3-6 hours per month throughout the school year. Most importantly, applicants must be enthusiastic and willing to make a positive impact in their community.

Teacher, advisers and other adult supervisors may also nominate a student to be a member of the YAC.

To learn more about the Youth Action Council, contact Emily Mihalcean at Emily.mihalcean@volunteerinfo.net or (847) 228-1320. Those interested may apply directly online at bit.ly/youthactionapp.

For over 40 years, HandsOn Suburban Chicago (HOSC) has been inspiring, equipping and mobilizing people to volunteer and take action that builds vibrant and prosperous communities. HOSC recruits and refers 10,000 volunteers annually to over 200 member agency nonprofits, and provides other support to local charitable organizations, such as consultations and trainings.

A nonprofit 501(c)(3) agency and part of the national HandsOn Network, HOSC service area includes 45 communities in the North and Northwest suburbs and a population of over 1.6 million residents.