Join Our Youth Advisory Committee

YAC Wants You!

Thank you for your interest in the Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)! If you're passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people in our community, we want you!

The application period to join the YAC for the 2026-27 academic year is now OPEN!

Applications will be due on Sunday, April 5 at 11:59 PM.

About the YAC

The Youth Advisory Committee includes approximately 20-25 student leaders from across Emmet County in grades 8-12. Students entering grades 8 through 11 in the 2026-27 school year are eligible to apply. Each year, we will invite 5-10 new members to join the committee

YAC promotes philanthropy, leadership, and active citizenship while ensuring youth voices are represented in our community. YAC members serve as advisors to the Fund for Youth and play an important role in reviewing grant proposals and recommending funding for local nonprofit organizations that serve young people.

YAC members are expected to:

Participate in monthly meetings held on Sundays from September through May
Attend two additional grant recommendation meetings held during the school day
Actively engage in thoughtful group discussions and decision-making
Participate in service projects and occasional grant partner site visits

Through this work, members gain hands-on experience in leadership, collaboration, and community impact.

What We're Looking For

Commitment and Reliability— Consistent attendance at monthly meetings from September to May and participation in service projects identified by the YAC.
Communication Skills – A willingness to listen respectfully, consider different viewpoints, and confidently share ideas.
Critical Thinking – The ability to thoughtfully evaluate grant proposals within the context of the Community Foundation’s priorities.
Unique Perspective – We value diverse representation across schools, backgrounds, and experiences. While siblings of current YAC members are eligible to apply, preference may be given to families not already represented. Priority may also be given to students from underrepresented schools to ensure broad community representation.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jake Myers - YAC Advisor

[email protected] or (231) 348-5820.