“…To advise the Board of Commissioners, and others
within county government, on issues relating to young
people throughout the county.”
Created by:
Raven Odom and Zachari Cahimba – Members of the 2009 ICYC

A diverse group of young people in
Ingham County ranging from 12-18
years of age who meet bi-weekly to
discuss youth issues.

The purpose of ICYC is to advise to Board of
Commissioners and others within the county
government on issues relating to and
concerning the youth in the county.
Some of our goals include:
Showcasing the youth voice on issues
Developing leadership skills
Educating youth about local issues

The Board of Commissioners were prompted
to start a youth commission because of the
lack of youth input. They felt that the best
way to compensate for youth issues is to
give them to the people who understand
them the most- the youth.

Members of ICYC are appointed by the
Ingham County Board of
Commissioners.
Individuals submit an application and
are interviewed by the Board of
Commissioners.
As much as possible, membership is
balanced amongst age groups.

Word of Mouth
Ingham County Listserv
Press Release to Ingham County media outlets
Presentations to youth serving organizations
including schools and community centers
Information booths at local events
Web (Ingham County website and social
networking sites)

Standing Committees: Community Issues:
Community Service Education
Government
Education Health
Public Relations
Juvenile Justice

Provides youth leadership opportunities
Youth provide a fresh way of thinking and
1st hand knowledge
ICYC offers a better understanding on issues
pertaining to youth in the community
Adults gain a better knowledge on issues
and can use youth as a resource to reach
their peers

ICYC members are recognized as a
positive group working to better the
community
Given a sense of power and
importance in the community

Understanding relationship with the
Board of Commissioners- equal decision
making
Youth voice isn’t always respected
Getting community to understand our
role
Schedules of youth that adults must be
willing to accommodate

Youth Voices
(Michigan’s Children, Community
Coalition for Youth)
Children Mental Health Awareness Day
(Impact Systems of Care)
4 UR Future
(MSU Extension Ingham County)
ICYC Logo Contest

Youth and Adult Partnerships
Youth and Adults working Challenges
together as partners in Youth and Adult’s
planning, implementation traditional perception of
working together within the
and evaluation of projects
group
and programs relevant to
Stereotypes of youth and
the needs and issues of
adults that inhibit the ability
youth.
to move forward on a
The relationship allows project
both the adults and youth Building youth initiative so
to have equal decision that they develop a respect
making power for older adults without
dependence upon them

Youth Commission in Action
Leadership Training
Teen Forum 2008 Holiday Project 2008
Great Start Literacy
Event