GETTING STARTED
Create communication platforms .
• Sharing documents — use Google Docs or another platform supported by your school district that enables document sharing . Create an efficient and easy process to share documents with youth council members . For example , creating a Google folder to store documents , survey forms , etc ., establishes a link that stays consistent over time and can be accessed anytime , anywhere .
• Creating webpages ( see example ).
• Using social media is an effective way to showcase initiatives and achievements . Youth should own this communication channel , but recognize that providing oversight and maintaining continuity requires a significant time commitment . Adult partners must know enough about the council ’ s social media efforts to bridge gaps and provide knowledge between school years or changes in youth oversight .
• Enabling group texting — use apps that enable group texts , such as “ Remind ” or " GroupMe ," to increase efficiency and ease of communication .
Consider a pre-recruitment meeting .
Host an “ interest ” meeting to hear ideas from youth before the youth advisory council is recruited . Show the Jeffco SHAC recruitment video and / or engage in a team-building activity to address the following :
• The purpose of a youth council .
• The benefits of participating in a youth council , such as leadership opportunities , skill development , networking , impacting the school / district / community , stipends , letters of recommendation , volunteer hours , etc .
• The youth council constitution — developed by youth council members , informs the council culture , policies , and norms .
• The most ideal meeting arrangements — consider what is most convenient for youth , such as days of the week , times , and locations ( e . g ., right after school , during lunch , Tuesdays at 6 p . m .). Identify the location and time of the first youth advisory council meeting .
• Transportation concerns — needs may vary , brainstorm with the community , families , and youth to reduce barriers and find solutions ( e . g ., carpool volunteers , bus passes , mileage reimbursement , rotating location of meetings , etc .).
• Topics of interest — brainstorm community health topics or other ideas to address as a youth council . Ask students what they think needs to change in their school or community ; capture the ideas to explore later once the council is formed .
STARTING ON SOMETHING IS BETTER THAN STALLING OUT WHILE WAITING FOR THE PERFECT INITIATIVE !
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