Service Learning: Hot Topic: Youth Speakers Bureaus and Youth Advisory Councils

This Hot Topic highlights recommended resource items, both online and in the National Service-Learning Clearinghouse library, on Youth Speakers Bureaus (YSBs) and Youth Advisory Councils (YACs). YSBs promote youth voice and provide youth with an opportunity to speak publicly about the positive effects service-learning can have on youth, institutions, and communities. YACs are a group of young people, most often ranging in age from 12-25, working in conjunction with an existing organization to assure that youth are involved in achieving the overall mission of the organization.
August 2007 (Updated January 2008)

NSLC Site Resources

Youth Voice in Service-Learning (Fact Sheet)
Youth Voice: Selected Resources (Bibliography)
Resources for Kids and Teens (NSLC Portal Page)

Relevant Links

Community Matters: The mission of Community Matters is to promote positive youth development. They equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge and tools to build communities where all children and youth can feel safe, connected, and empowered. This includes resources on youth speakers' bureaus and training and technical assistance to help communities create their own YSBs.
Kids as Self Advocates
"Just What is a YAC (Youth Advisory Committee)" Lesson Plan
YAC Getting Started Toolkit
Healthy and Ready to Work: YAC Resources

Sample Youth Speakers Bureaus/Youth Advisory Councils

Sample Youth Speakers Bureau Material

Ambassador Application (1170K pdf) - (Youth Service California's Project Catalyst)
Civil Rights Trip Slide Show Flyer (115K pdf) - (Southside Family Charter School)
Consent and Liability Waiver (120K pdf) - (Michigan Service-Learning Youth Council)
Frequently Asked Questions Document (423K pdf) - (Youth Service California's Project Catalyst)
Member Selection Form (225K pdf) - (Michigan Service-Learning Youth Council)
Orientation - Confidential Medical History (149K pdf) - (Michigan Service-Learning Youth Council)
Outreach Presentation Report (121K pdf) - (Michigan Service-Learning Youth Council)
Promotional Brochure (SLYC) (156K pdf) - (Michigan Service-Learning Youth Council)
Promotional Brochure (YSCPC) (287K pdf) - (Youth Service California's Project Catalyst)
Service Project Report (37K pdf) - (Michigan Service-Learning Youth Council)
Youth Council Summary (161K pdf) - (Michigan Service-Learning Youth Council)

Recommended NSLC Library Items* (How to Borrow)