“Empowering, Improving, and Connecting the City’s Youth for Success”

Mission Statement

The mission of the Independence Youth Council is to identify and define relevant issues impacting teens in Independence.

What is the Independence Youth Council?

The Independence Youth Council is a peer group of civically minded students working together to improve their community. The IYC is a forum for youth by youth, dedicated to youth issues. The IYC is a unique organization allowing youth to address issues that matter most to them, while cultivating youth leadership, personal responsibility and inter-personal skills.

The IYC works to improve the quality of life for Independence youth by using youth experiences, knowledge, and sensitivities.

Click here to check out the IYC brochure

What do IYC members do?

Do you want...

• More youth activities and programs?
• To make a difference in Independence?
• To help your fellow students?
• To voice your opinion and offer your perspective regarding youth issues?
• To become civically engaged?
• Tour City facilities and departments (Police, Power & Light, Water Pollution Control, etc)

Then this is your opportunity.

IYC members:

• Advise and interact with the Independence City Council on issues regarding youth in the City of Independence.
• Create, shape, and coordinate youth activities and programs in their communities and neighborhoods.
• IYC members address and tackle issues that matter most to them.
• Help formulate and review City policy.
• Coordinate with the Independence Health Department to improve the health of youth.
• Represent the youth of Independence.
• Help advance the City’s strategic vision regarding its youth.
• Have the ability to change and shape Independence.

Goals

• Foster youth civic engagement.
• Promote healthy lifestyles among youth.
• Create an open forum for youth-sponsored programs and activities.

Expectations

IYC membership requires commitment. Members are expected to attend monthly meetings and to participate in IYC activities and programs. Monthly commitment varies but IYC members can expect to commit several hours each month working with the Youth Council.

IYC members represent the IYC during all IYC activities and programs and will treat other IYC members, members of the community, and city staff with respect and professionalism.

Membership Requirements

At the time of application:

• Members must live within the city limits of Independence.
• Members must complete and mail in application form.
• Must have the willingness and ability to serve a one-year term.
• Must be between the ages of 14-18.
• Must be enrolled in the 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grades.
• Must maintain a 2.0 GPA.

Becoming an IYC Member

The Independence Youth Council is looking for enthusiastic, energetic, and civically minded high school students.

Join the Independence Youth Council and make a difference in your community.

More Information

Matt Randall
Youth Council Coordinator
E-mail: mrandall@indepmo.org
Phone: (816) 325-7192