Youth leadership development is critical in building civic capacity and long-term community success in Indianapolis. Programs that teach useful skills and build the self-confidence of young people ensure capable, effective leaders for the next generation. Recent national trends indicate an increase in youth civic service. Renewed emphasis on civic education in schools indicate a growing need for leadership training to ensure young people are prepared to participate in political and civic life.

The Indianapolis Youth Commission will serve the City County Council as subject matter experts in youth affairs. The Indianapolis Youth Commission will serve as advisors to the City County Council, business and civic leaders on issues facing youth by sharing their perspectives on city challenges.

The Indianapolis Youth Commission is different from other youth leadership opportunities in one key way: 60% of commission members are “systems-involved”, meaning they are currently or were formerly involved with the juvenile justice, child welfare, foster care, or other type of system of care. The talents and skills required for leadership are not mutually exclusive with the experiences of systems-involved youth, who nevertheless are often overlooked and underrepresented in opportunities for young people to share their voices and concerns.

The City of Indianapolis IYC program was established on December 7, 2020 with unanimous approval from the Indianapolis City-County Council. A copy of the codification of the Indianapolis Youth Program is available online.

Contact Program Director, Doneisha Posey if you have any questions at doneisha@blackonyxmanagement.com