What is the CYC?
The Columbus Youth Council (CYC) program gives Columbus high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to immerse themselves in city government and learn how they can become stewards in their community.
Students selected participate in several sessions dealing with topics such as the structure of city government, city housing & development, public safety, and much more. Sessions begin at 8:00 am and end at 2:00 pm. Meals and program supplies are provided.
Students interact with members of the Columbus City Council as well as other community speakers. Along with in-person sessions, students collaborate with other CYC students on one of the three teams available and have ongoing communication during the week working on various tasks. The teams include Social Media, Recruitment, and Graduation.
PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS (2022-2023):
Briggs
Centennial
Columbus Alternative
Columbus International
Fort Hayes
Northland
South
Whetstone
Student Testimonials:
“The Columbus Youth Council is a program that gives you an opportunity to be inside of the buildings where change happens and meet the people who help run the City. Columbus Youth Council really allows you to visualize yourself as someone who can and will make change in your community.”
“One of my favorite things about the program is the critical conversations you have with your peers every session. Columbus Youth Council is a great program and I recommend it to any and every student who wants to become a difference maker.”
“This program is a great way to learn about the city you live in, you get the opportunity to make connections and build relationships, develop skills, and create some unforgettable memories. This is a great program to be part of.”
How to Apply
Applications for the 2023-2024 cohort are currently closed. Please check back in January 2024 for details regarding applications to join next year’s program! If you have any questions, please feel free to email [email protected].