A new initiative in Prince Edward County is is looking to connect youth with local government.
Prince Edward County is the first municipality in Eastern Ontario to join forces with the Youth Council Coalition of Canada.
The County will participate in the YCC’s Hour-for-Hour Challenge which will help secondary school students learn how local government works through experiential learning opportunities.
Mayor Steve Ferguson says they’re looking to develop meaningful civic engagement opportunities for young people.
“Getting youth involved in how municipal government works is certainly something that would help with their understanding of municipal government and may lead to their wanting to pursue opportunities whether it’s through employment or through becoming an elected official.”
Students will be paired with a member of Council who will tailor the learning experience according to the needs and interests of the student.
“What would come from that might be conversations about the ways in which government works. Maybe helping out with some research initiatives, maybe attending meetings. There will be a variety of things that they can undertake with the help of the councillor.”
Participating students can also use the time towards their required 40 hours of volunteer service.
Students in grades 9-12 interested in applying to the program or looking for more information can contact Joy McLeod, Executive Assistant to the Mayor, by emailing jmcleod@pecounty.on.ca.
