We call them YACers … Youth Advisory Committee members. They attend schools throughout Genesee County, are 14 to 18 years old, and see the problems that youth face. Meeting monthly during the school year, they mix their perspectives and evaluate grant proposals effectively.

YACs got their start in the 1990s when the W.K. Kellogg Foundation issued a youth challenge grant to community foundations. Four youth endowments were established at that time — Countywide, Clio, Grand Blanc and Fenton/Linden. Since the first YAC was established in 1992, members have awarded more than $1 million for a variety of programs that benefit area young people.

Serving the community through YAC has been extremely fulfilling in my life,” adds Riley Simmington. “The feeling I get, knowing I had a part in making such an impact in our area, is one that I’m so grateful for!”

Read the full article about youth advisory committee members from Medium