By Catherine Cioffi, Communications Director, Office of Westchester County Executive George Latimer

March 30, 2022: The Westchester County Youth Bureau is seeking young people ages 13 to 21 to represent Westchester County on the New York State Governor’s Youth Council. Governor Kathy Hochul has announced applications are open for this Youth Council which will be comprised of one representative from each county in the state – totaling 62 members. 

Interested youth should submit an application by April 4, 2022 through the online portal available at click here. Candidates will be selected on their character, leadership skills, academic achievement, civic engagement, and service to their community.

Members of the NYS Governor’s Youth Council will meet virtually and will provide recommendations to the Governor and other policymakers on many different issues, including:

-Mental Health Challenges on Youth Substance Use and Prevention

-Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

-Gender-based Violence Prevention & Response

-Creating Positive Interactions between Youth & Law Enforcement

-Youth Programming in a Virtual World

-Youth Voice & Engagement: Creating Opportunities Addressing Identity and Community Needs

County Executive George Latimer said: “Westchester County is home to young people who are extremely diligent and passionate about societal issues and have already begun to make changes at the local level. To have the opportunity to participate on a statewide task force and focus on specific policy issues will be a worthwhile experience that will benefit us all.”

Westchester County Youth Bureau Director Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said: “This is a unique opportunity for Westchester’s critical thinkers and youth leaders to lend their passion and talent on social issues that have already been demonstrated locally to a regional and statewide platform.”

The Youth Bureau will search far and wide for applicants. Three applicants will be selected to advance to the final selection process in Albany, where one youth will be selected. Please contact the Westchester County Youth Bureau at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (914) 995-2745 with questions.