Ottumwa's Got Talent: Unleashing Young Leaders Through the City Council

The City of Ottumwa, Iowa, is taking a groundbreaking step towards fostering youth leadership and civic participation by establishing a pilot Youth City Council program. This initiative recognizes the importance of empowering young people and giving them a platform to contribute meaningfully to their community.

Set to launch in 2024 and run through the end of 2025, the program will bring together seven passionate young minds from grades 9-12. Kolby Streeby, the Ottumwa Community School District's youth engagement coordinator and one who helped start the council along with Cara Galloway and Mayor Rick Johnson emphasizes the collaborative approach: "This council is 100% youth-led," he says. While overseen by Mayor Johnson and Streeby, the council will ultimately define its goals, success metrics, and impact assessment strategies.

Building a Stronger Community Through Service and Engagement

The Youth City Council's core functions will revolve around service, civic engagement, and leadership development. Council members will dedicate 3-5 hours monthly to service projects and attend two monthly meetings. One of these meetings will specifically focus on organizing a city-wide 9/11 Day of Service, promoting remembrance and unity within the community. “Youth will meet with individuals within our local government to learn about the different departments. Youth will also meet virtually with Volunteer Iowa and participate in Youth Service Committee meetings with youth across the state. These meetings will allow youth to engage with other youth boards/councils and discuss topics, such as how to effectively run a youth board meeting, lead a service project, etc.,” Streeby says.

Seeking Diverse Voices: A Selection Process Focused on Inclusivity

The application process for the Youth City Council prioritized inclusivity. Streeby said, "A diverse background was important to us." The selection committee sought candidates from various backgrounds who demonstrated a passion for advocating for their peers, developing leadership qualities, and actively participating in service-learning projects. The final selections reflect this focus, representing grades 9-12, students new to the community, and those who have called Ottumwa home their entire lives.

Investing in the Future: Mentorship and Training for Effective Leaders

The Youth City Council program goes beyond simply providing a platform for young voices. It also offers mentorship and training opportunities to equip council members with the necessary skills to thrive.

The plan includes meetings with local government officials, allowing council members to learn about different city departments firsthand. Additionally, virtual sessions with Volunteer Iowa and participation in Youth Service Committee meetings with peers across the state will be offered. These interactions will provide valuable insights into running effective youth boards, leading service projects, and collaborating with other young leaders.

A Sustainable Future for Youth Engagement

The pilot program represents a significant investment in Ottumwa's youth and their potential. While still in its initial stages, the program enables council members to define its future. "We are optimistic that the Youth City Council will become a permanent fixture in Ottumwa's civic landscape," says Streeby. This optimism underscores the program's potential to nurture a culture of inclusivity and amplify the voices of its young leaders for years to come.