2021 ANNUAL REPORT
RECOGNIZING YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL CONTRIBUTIONS
The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) played a pivotal role in connecting the youth of Grande Prairie with the broader community throughout the 2021 term. Their dedication and service provided valuable insights and perspectives on various issues impacting the city’s future.
In 2021, YAC members engaged in fostering community engagement, organizing forums, and participating in meaningful discussions that contributed to the city’s development. The collaborative spirit and innovative ideas brought forth by the YAC promoted a more inclusive and dynamic Grande Prairie.
The YAC greatly appreciates the opportunity to work closely with City Council members who regularly attend their meetings. This collaboration has shown the youth that their voices matter and
are being heard, enhancing their commitment to making a positive difference in the community. The efforts of the YAC have significantly impacted civic engagement, setting a high standard for future youth leaders. Their commitment to making a positive difference in the community is commendable and continues to inspire others.
YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL MANDATE
To provide an effective link between community boards and committees, City Council, community agencies and Grande Prairie youth.
The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) provides an opportunity for youth to have input by engaging in community discussions around important events, policies, economic changes, infrastructure, etc. Members are encouraged to provide their input and seek opinions of their peer and the youth community on important issues.
HIGHLIGHTS
YAC members completed 4 engagement opportunities, welcomed 4 delegations to their meetings, and attended 7 local events.
YAC planned and hosted an online Financial Literacy 101 session in collaboration with The Debtless Students. The Debtless Students organization was started by a former YAC member!
YAC members identified a gap in communicating youth-oriented activities in the city, so some members branched off on an independent initiative and created the Grande Prairie Youth Report which was a monthly newsletter available through e-mail, online, and on social media.
150 YAC postcards went into new student welcome packages at Northwestern Polytechnic.
YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, ROLES & TERM WORK
The 2021–2022 YAC members were between the ages of 14 to 24. Members represent their experiences as secondary school students, post-secondary students, homeschool students, youth in the workforce, community volunteers, advocates, allies, artists, musicians, athletes, and leaders.
2021–2022 YAC Members
■ Chair: Avalon Heemskerk
■ Vice Chair: Daisy Nellis
■ Secretary: Chloe Watson
■ Agenda: Devyn Mumert
■ Council Members: Bradley Williams, Coleman Parlee, Grace Larson, Julia Izuogu, Nidhin Sunil
■ City Council: Councillor D. Bressey and Councillor W. Bosch
■ City Administration:
2021–2022 YAC’s Term Work
■ YAC Welcome and Orientation Session
■ Monthly Meetings
■ YAC Member Team Celebration
■ Member Recruitment and Application Deadline: October 15
DELEGATIONS
YAC welcomed 4 delegations from local organizations. Delegations presented their topics and heard the youth members’ perspectives and ideas:
Communities Building Youth Futures (CBYF)
Youth Hub and Youth on the Rise
Sunrise House Youth Emergency Shelter New Building
Youth Leadership Summit Planning
ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
YAC members participated in City of Grande Prairie and local organization engagement sessions and surveys to seek their insight as connected local youth:
City of Grande Prairie Budget Review Art Gallery of Grande Prairie
Recreation and Culture Strategy
Focus Group
Snow and Ice Removal
LEARNING TOURS EVENTS
YAC members tour and learn about the City of Grande Prairie during their term to have informed conversations about their experiences:
Ernie Radbourne Pavilion City Hall City Council Chambers Aquatera Outdoor Pool
Eastlink Centre Pool Operations
YAC members are active citizens in the City of Grande Prairie and attended 7 local events:
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Canada Day Celebrations
Thriving in the City at Northwestern Polytechnic
Virtual Youth Summit hosted by Calgary Mayor’s Youth Council
Youth Week 2022
Financial Literacy 101
Student for a Day at Northwestern Polytechnic
facebook.com/gpYouthCouncil
youth@cityofgp.com
cityofgp.com/YAC