MA first state to have a statewide youth council.

On April 24, 2008 I had the pleasure of attending Governor Patrick's statewide youth council executive order signing. About a year ago the Governor visited Dorchester after a youth shooting. He was asked by a youth during this site " Why can't we have a voice in shaping the policy that affects us". That was the spark that lit the fire to start the statewide youth council. Governor Patrick is the first Governor making MA the first state to take a youth council to the state level. The council will meet at least four times per year and the Governor himself plans to attend some of the meetings. He is looking to get 2 youth ages 14-20 from each of the 14 counties of the state.

As a person who served on Boston's Mayors Youth Council many moons ago I know bringing youth advocacy, and youth empowerment to the table will be of value to our state. To see the Mayors of Boston and Quincy;our senators and youth from the UWMBMV footprint standing there with Governor Patrick all saying how important it is to hear the voice of our states future truly validated the work that we do here at UWMBMV. If you know of a youth that you think would be great on this council the application deadline is MAY 30, 2008. Encourage them to have their voice heard!