NYS Youth Justice Peer Advisory Council Application Form

NYS Youth Justice Peer Advisory Council
The New York State Youth Justice Peer Advisory Council (PAC) advises state and local youth justice leaders on youth policies, practices, and initiatives that impact young people across New York. PAC members use their lived experiences to ensure that youth perspectives are heard and considered in policy discussions and program development.

Eligibility for PAC membership includes but is not limited to young individuals (ages 18-25) with experience direct or indirect in any of the following systems or programs in New York state:
- The criminal or juvenile justice systems, including Raise the Age (RTA) proceedings.
- System involvement due to neglect or Persons in Need of Supervision (PINS) proceedings.
- Participation in runaway and/or homeless youth services.
- Out-of-home placements related to education, mental health services (RTF/CCR), or foster care.
- Past involvement in diversion programs or Raise the Lower Age programming.
The NYS Youth Justice Institute (YJI) is committed to equity and inclusion and actively seeks to engage youth from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds, individuals of all abilities, LGBTQIA+ communities, and all regions of New York State.
Applications for PAC membership are accepted on a rolling basis.
Section 1: Introduction
Welcome to the NYS Youth Justice Peer Advisory Council (PAC) Application!

We are looking for dedicated young leaders (ages 18-25) with lived system experience to join the PAC and contribute to youth justice reform across New York State.
- Compensation: Eligible PAC members receive monetary stipends for their participation.
- Commitment: Members are expected to participate in monthly meetings and contribute to youth justice discussions.
- Engagement: Members will gain mentorship, networking, and professional skill-building opportunities.
Section 2: Eligibility Criteria
Are you between the ages of 18 & 25?*

YesNo
Are you eligible to work in the United States?*

YesNo
I need assistance related to employment eligibility:*

YesNo
Section 3: PAC Member Expectations
Are you able to commit to monthly virtual meetings and occasional in-person events if the costs of attendance are covered?

YesNo
We ask PAC members to commit to:
- Participating in monthly virtual meetings (1.5–2 hours per month)
- Contributing to discussions on youth justice issues
- Engaging in leadership training and mentorship opportunities
- Attending our annual in-person retreat
Are you willing to commit to these expectations?

YesNo
Section 4: Tell Us About Yourself, Your Experience & Interests
Name:*

First NameLast Name
Date of Birth*

MonthDayYear
Address*

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState

Postal / Zip Code
Gender Pronouns
Race/Ethnicity:*

Hispanic/LatinoWhiteBlack/African AmericanAmerican IndianAlaska NativeAsianNative HawaiianMultiracialOther Race
Cell phone*

Area CodePhone Number
Landline

Area CodePhone Number
Email*
example@example.com
What is the best way to contact you? (check all that apply)*

EmailTextCallMailOther
List your social media handles:
How many hours would you be available to commit to PAC training and meeting per month?*

1-34-67-10
I am able to commit to one year of service to the PAC.*

YesNoI'm not sure
What youth justice topics are you passionate about?

Juvenile justice reformEducation in detention centersReentry supportOther
Have you participated in any advocacy, mentorship or leadership programs before?

NoYes
How do you believe you'd be best suited to contribute to the PAC?
Describe three ways your system involvement has impacted you.*
Did your experience result in a runaway/homelessness program, out-of-home placement, detention, or incarceration?

YesNoPrefer not to answer
If you have experienced unstable housing away from your family, please share how this experience could be an asset in informing your work with the PAC.
What qualities and experiences make you an expert on how to shape youth justice in NYS?*
How did you learn about the PAC?
Please attach a short essay (250 words max) or video (3 minutes max) describing why you are interested in joining the Youth Justice Peer Advisory Council and what you would hope to accomplish on behalf of New York’s youth as a counsel member.*

Note: All the information provided in your application will be kept confidential.
Cancelof
Section 5: Commitment & Timeline
- Recruitment occurs on a rolling basis (12 months a year).
- The upcoming onboarding retreat will take place in June.
- PAC meetings and leadership engagements continue throughout the year.
Are you available during this timeline?

YesNo
Section 6: Final Acknowledgment
I understand that by submitting this application, I:
- Meet the eligibility criteria for PAC outlined in section 2.
- I am interested in youth justice reform and leadership development.
- I will be available for monthly virtual meetings and select in-person events.
I acknowledge and agree with the expectations outlined above.*

Yes
Should be Empty:

Section 1: Introduction

Section 2: Eligibility Criteria

Section 3: PAC Member Expectations

Section 4: Tell Us About Yourself, Your Experience & Interests

Section 5: Commitment & Timeline

Section 6: Final Acknowledgment