Youth Commission

Make Your Voice Heard. Shape Your Community.

The Santa Cruz County Youth Commission is a new advisory body that gives high school students a real voice in local government decisions. This is your opportunity to speak up, represent youth across the county, and help shape policies and programs that impact young people.

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Application Deadline: May 31, 2026

Apply Here

About the Youth Commission

The Youth Commission is made up of 11 high school students (ages 14–18) from across Santa Cruz County. Commissioners work together to identify issues that matter to youth, share recommendations, and collaborate with County leaders to create positive change.

Youth Commissioners play an active role in making sure the perspectives and experiences of young people are included in decision-making.

What You’ll Do

The Youth Commission is made up of 11 high school students (ages 14–18) from across Santa Cruz County. Commissioners work together to identify issues that matter to youth, share recommendations, and collaborate with County leaders to create positive change.

Speak up about issues that matter to youth
Turn ideas into real solutions and recommendations
Work with County leaders and community partners
Represent youth voices in local decision-making
Help create positive change across Santa Cruz County

Who Can Apply

High school students ages 14–18 who live and go to school in Santa Cruz County.

How Seats are Selected

The Youth Commission is designed to reflect the diversity of youth across Santa Cruz County.

5 District Seats

Each member of the Board of Supervisors will appoint one student from their district.

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6 At-Large Seats

The Chair of the Board of Supervisors will appoint six additional students, with a preference for selecting one person from each of the following stakeholder groups to ensure diverse perspectives and lived experiences are represented.

This structure helps create a Commission that reflects the full diversity of youth across the county.