Youth Advisors

The city of Harrisburg and the Harrisburg School District have collaborated for many years to give our youth civic experiences. One opportunity is for two high school students to serve as Youth Advisors on either the City Council or the Planning Commission.  Appointments last for the duration of the school year.

Each Youth Advisor serves as a full participating member of the body on which they serve, except their motions and votes are noted as being advisory only.

Serving as a Youth Advisor is a valuable learning experience for these students. It teaches them about their city, how laws are passed and issues dealt with, parliamentary procedures, and communication and listening skills. It makes them comfortable with the process so that they will be willing later in their lives to participate in local affairs, and possibly serve their community in some capacity.

It is not just the students that benefit though. The city and city officials benefit through the participation of an age group that traditionally does not get involved in local government. We are proud of this win-win collaborative effort!