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NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — The City of Niagara Falls Youth Advisory Committee will welcome representatives from the Office of New York State Senator April N.M. Baskin on Monday, September 14, for a special conversation centered on youth voice, community priorities, and New York State funding for young people.
Dr. Callie Johnson and Mylan Hawkins, representatives from Senator Baskin's office, will meet directly with Niagara Falls Youth Ambassadors to discuss how New York State supports youth programs and community initiatives and, most importantly, to listen to the ideas and concerns of young people in Niagara Falls.
A central part of the meeting will be the Youth Advisory Committee's “One Community Wish” conversation.
Each Youth Ambassador will be invited to answer one important question: “If you could make one change for young people in Niagara Falls, what would it be?”
Ambassadors will have an opportunity to share their ideas about the issues and opportunities that matter to them, including recreation, employment, education, safe spaces, mental health and wellness, neighborhoods, career opportunities, and other priorities identified by the youth themselves.
“This meeting is about giving our young people the floor,” said Council Member Bridgette Myles. “Too often, adults make decisions about young people without first asking them what they are experiencing and what they believe their community needs. Our Youth Ambassadors deserve the opportunity to speak directly with leaders and decision-makers, ask questions, and understand how the government can help turn good ideas into real opportunities.”
Representatives from Senator Baskin's office will also provide the Ambassadors with a youth-friendly overview of New York State funding, including how investments in youth and
communities are made and how local priorities can help inform conversations about future resources.
“Our young people should understand that their voices can help shape their community,” Myles added. “September 14 is about listening first. We want our Ambassadors to leave knowing that their ideas matter and that they have a seat at the table.”
