2026-2027 Borough Hall YAC Application

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso is calling all rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors to join his 2026 - 2027 Borough Hall Youth Advisory Council in partnership with New York City Public Schools. It is important that we center civic engagement in the Borough of Brooklyn and create a platform for youth voices to be uplifted. Our goal being to shape the next generation of thoughtful leaders through (1) Advocacy, (2) Policy and (3) Service.

As a Youth Advisory Council scholar, you will have an opportunity to build out a package of recommendations for the Borough President centered around youth issues; learn about ways to become civically engaged across the Borough; and lead your own service learning project!

Requirements

• Enrolled in a NYC Public High School
• Be a HS Sophomore, Junior or Senior by the 2026-2027 School Year in September.
• Be available to meet at minimum twice a month virtually and/or in-person with city leaders, motivated peers, and Borough Hall Staff.
• Have one adult as a reference.

Expectations

• Attend bi-weekly meetings virtual after-school; with some in-person options (calendar shared in advance).
• Work amongst a team of 20+ Brooklyn Youth on either our (1) Policy Committee (2) Advocacy Committee (3) Service Learning Committee
• Present in front of a group of their peers at virtual town-halls and summits
• Promote Youth Advisory Council events, initiatives, and partnerships to their school community
• Serve as a liaison for schools across the Borough
• Work collaboratively on ongoing projects with youth members and Borough Hall staff.

Student stipends will be provided based on attendance and successful completion of the program.

So what are you waiting for? Apply now! Applications close June 8th. Please note the following regarding the application:

1. The application must be completed in one sitting. You will NOT be able to save and return to your application.
2. Please review the ENTIRE application before you begin answering questions.
3. You MUST answer all required questions (denoted with a red asterisk) in order to submit your application.

For any questions or concerns please contact Donavan Swanson, Director of Programs and Education Engagement for Brooklyn Borough Presidents Office, at donavan.swanson@brooklynbp.nyc.gov.

 

1. What is one issue in your city or borough where youth voices are often overlooked? How would you address it as a young person? Briefly explain the problem and how you would get other youth involved to create change.

2. If you were given the resources to address one issue in the Borough of Brooklyn, what would you choose and why? What resources would you invest to address it, and how would they benefit Brooklyn residents?

3. If you could start your own charity/Non-profit, what would your mission be? Who would you serve? What kinds of acts of service would volunteers perform? How would you engage and recruit youth to your charity to support your mission?