City of Des Moines Youth Advisory Board

About the Youth Advisory Board

The Youth Advisory Board serves the Des Moines City Council, providing a voice for youth in city government. The Mission of the City of Des Moines Youth Advisory Board is to improve community through youth involvement.

The Des Moines Youth Advisory board is composed of a representative from each high school in the Des Moines Public School District, Des Moines Christian, and Dowling Catholic, as well as three youth from community organizations such as, but not limited to Creative Visions, Making Connections, Grubb YMCA, Greater Des Moines Youth Leadership Institute, Des Moines Public Library, Sister City Commission, and Partners for Economic Progress.

The board also has adult representatives from the Des Moines Public Schools, Des Moines Police Department, Des Moines Park and Recreation Department, The Youth Emergency Services and Shelter/IA Homeless Youth Center, City Manager’s Office, YMCA, and the Greater Des Moines Partnership (Chamber of Commerce).

In the past years the board has hosted a youth forum, National Youth Day of Service and Recognition, Youth Yellow Pages, the Metrostar youth talent competition, as well as various community service activities. Members have also attend the National League of Cities Conference, received Potential Youth Leadership Training, attended MINK (leadership camp), and held annual retreats. We are looking to continue these projects and trainings to help provide a voice for youth in the community.

Why Join the Youth Advisory Board

  • Able to give input into your community
  • Become a catalyst for change
  • Opportunity to learn more about city government and civic engagement

Qualifications

  • Have time to give to the board!
  • Show leadership, organization through your school, community, family, organization, club, etc...
  • Entering grade 9 - 11 as of August 2007

Youth Advisory Board Application

The board is looking for active, energetic youth that seek to make a difference in the Des Moines community. Applicants MUST have the time to attend monthly meetings, monthly committee meetings, and help plan various, time intensive year-round activities.

Click here for application (pdf)


City of Des Moines logo

City of Des Moines, Iowa
Parks and Recreation