The Gwinnett Youth Commission is year-long program, including an eight-week summer program designed to educate youth about local government, engage youth in civic affairs, and provide an opportunity for youth to affect change in their community. Youth will get behind-the-scenes tours of Gwinnett County Government departments, interact with government leaders, and receive community leadership training designed to foster the next generation of leaders for Gwinnett County.
Students who participate in this program will:
- Interact with Gwinnett County Government leaders
- Speak on behalf of Gwinnett County youth
- Help local government better understand the issues facing Gwinnett youth
- Serve as youth ambassadors for the county
- Plan community events and participate in volunteer projects.
2023 – 2024 Class Disclaimer
Please be aware: Gwinnett County Community Outreach is closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic, and GYC 2023 – 2024 dates are subject to change. Any changes will follow the recommendations of the CDC and Gwinnett County Government. We will communicate any updates in a timely manner.
Cost
Eligibility
To be considered for the program, youth must:
- Be a resident of Gwinnett County
- Attend a school in Gwinnett County (Gwinnett County Public Schools, Buford City Schools, private, home school, or charter schools)
- Be a rising freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior going into the academic year
- Submit a completed application and typed essay questions
Schedule
This summer program will take place every Wednesday from 8:00am to 5:00pm at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. Summer training dates are as follows:
- May 31
- June 8
- June 15
- June 22
- June 29
- July 6
- July 13
- July 29
Students may not miss more than two sessions each program cycle. The induction ceremony for the 2023 – 2024 cohort of the Gwinnett Youth Commission will take place on Wednesday, July 26 in the auditorium of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. Accepted students must be present for the session on May 31. An informational meeting for parents will be held in May prior to the start of the 2023 — 2024 program year.
After successful completion of the program, youth commission graduates will be invited to participate in special events, field trips, and assist with planning and participating in community volunteer projects throughout Gwinnett County during the academic school year.
Monthly Meetings
The Gwinnett Youth Commission meets monthly from August to May. Dates and additional details about these meetings will be shared before the end of the summer training program.
Selection Criteria
The class is limited to 30 participants each cycle. Selections will be made by an independent committee based on eligibility and the typed essay. Students selected for this program will represent a cross-section of Gwinnett County.
Application
Interested candidates must complete an application, to which eligibility will be verified. The application deadline for the 2023 – 2024 cohort is Friday, April 7 at 10:00pm. Accepted Youth will be notified by early May.
Please contact Community Outreach Programs Coordinator Michael Rabalais at [email protected] with any questions.
Please note: Candidates will be selected by an independent selection committee; therefore, a submitted application does not guarantee your participation in the Gwinnett Youth Commission. All selected candidates will be notified.
For more Information: Visit the website for Gwinnett Youth Commission (GYC) 2023-2024 Cohort
 2023-2024 Cohort Application.The Gwinnett Youth Commission is year-long program, including an eight-week summ){kind=link}