MCY and The Town of Nederland, with the inaugural year of the Nederland Youth Board, have demonstrated a commitment to forward-thinking, creative partnerships with youth. The new town board convened for the first time on November 12th, 2021 at the Nederland Community Library. Supported by MCY staff and The Town of Nederland, the Nederland Youth Board is integrated into local outreach and decision-making process, like any other town board. Their mandate is to identify current and potential local issues that impact the opportunities, wellness, and quality of life of the Nederland Youth Community.
MCY and The Town of Nederland, with the inaugural year of the Nederland Youth Board, have demonstrated a commitment to forward-thinking, creative partnerships with youth. The new town board convened for the first time on November 12th, 2021 at the Nederland Community Library. Supported by MCY staff and The Town of Nederland, the Nederland Youth Board is integrated into local outreach and decision-making process, like any other town board. Their mandate is to identify current and potential local issues that impact the opportunities, wellness, and quality of life of the Nederland Youth Community
In addition to staffing by MCY, the Nederland Youth Board is being supported by Town Administrator, Miranda Fisher, who spent the entirety of the 5-hour monthly meeting with the Board. They will also be supported by their Liaison to the the Nederland Board of Trustees, Lindsey Danforth. The resources, energy, and commitment devoted to MCY and The Town of Nederland in support of The Nederland Youth Board represent our community's groundbreaking approach to Positive Youth Development and to genuinely partnering with, including, and hearing local youth as a key constituencies and stakeholders.
Comprised of youth ranging from 8th grade to 12th grade, half of whom are student at Nederland Middle and High School and half are students at Chinook West, a local alternative high school, this Board represents a diverse range of local youth experiences and perspectives. This was key goal of MCY in creating the Nederland Youth Board. MCY, in partnership with both schools, has made certain that there are no barriers to participation for local students. Transportation and food are provided and members have the opportunity for individualized leadership development plans.
Issues discussed at the first meeting included parking and car culture as issues that impact youth spaces and quality of life, the hiring process for a new Town Marshall, and land use relevant to creating youth-supporting public spaces. As the Board continues to meet, updates will be posted on their website.