Youth Representation

Youth Commissions and Student Advocacy Councils are among our most powerful strategies to bring youth voice to decisionmaking tables – in local governments and in schools. Based on data they collect from their peers, these commissions and councils advocate for critical policies, and provide recommendations and trainings to teachers, administrators, school boards, supervisors and city councils to create concrete change within our communities.

Current Programs

San Mateo

Past Programs

I loved going to yli and seeing my friends and the staff. One of the memories that sticks out the most though is my first public speaking event. It was my first time talking about my experiences on how tobacco impacts my community’s health. I had to talk in front of the Board of Supervisors and my team. I felt so nervous going up there but I had the trust from my team! Thanks to people like Fahad, Alex, Catherine, Matt, and Patty I have overcome many of my fears of public speaking! Also shoutout to my brother for always being my number one and joining yli because of me!

Luisa Sicairos, Alumni