Aurora offers programs to engage youths in community

As the school year gets into full swing, Aurora is collaborating with schools and other partners to provide opportunities for youth to become more engaged throughout the community.

"Our youth not only represent our future potential, but they also are a reflection of our present priorities," said Mayor Richard C. Irvin. "What we do now to empower them can have a direct impact on our city, country and world."

Here's what the city is doing ...

Resource Fair

More than 25 community organizations and service providers will come together for the sixth Aurora Youth and Family Resource Fair from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, at the East Aurora High School Ponquinette Fieldhouse, 500 Tomcat Lane.

During the fair, parents and children will be able to visit booths to speak with organizers and obtain information about program participation. The fair also will feature special performances, hands-on activities and raffle prizes.

"The fair allows us to present services to our youth and their families at one time," said Youth Services Manager Simon Rodriguez, who is organizing the event.

"There will be organizations that are actively working to improve the health, academics, recreation, employment and overall empowerment of our youth."

Design Challenge

This fall, students will have a unique opportunity to help shape the future of Aurora. The city is collaborating with the Illinois Math and Science Academy to host the "Smart City Youth Design Challenge" for students in middle school and high school.

Youths will work in small groups led by facilitators to create ideas and design for what transportation, education, entertainment, community, energy and other parts of the city could be like in a city of the future. Youth teams will then be invited to a special event with the city leaders to pitch their ideas.

Registration will open soon. Information will be posted online at www.aurora-il.org and www.imsa.edu.