GYC is a year-long leadership program for high-school aged students to participate in personal and professional development, civic engagement, and public service.

GYC is for sophomore, juniors, and senior high school students who want to learn more about local government, serve their community, and invest in themselves as a future leader. The program does not consider GPA or past leadership experience when assessing applications. All youth who feel that they will grow from the program are encouraged to apply.

GYC consists of summer training sessions, monthly meetings, and various service projects. Youth receive leadership lessons on topics like communication, conflict resolution, developing their own personal leadership style, etc.

In addition to leadership training, the youth visit various Gwinnett County Government departments to learn more about their role. Tours include the Department of Transportation, Gwinnett County Police Department, Fire Department, and more!

During the school year, Youth Commissioners meet monthly to continue leadership development, educate themselves on issues currently affecting Gwinnett County, and serve as representatives of Gwinnett County’s youth.

There is no cost associated with GYC. Breakfast and lunch are provided at all summer training sessions, and meals are provided when possible during school year activities. Please note that Gwinnett County Government cannot provide transportation to or from GYC meetings, and each participant must have reliable transport arranged.

Youth who are not accepted to the program are encouraged to stay involved with Gwinnett County Government and to apply again in the following year. Whether or not an applicant has applied in previous years is taken into consideration during the selection process. Throughout the year, there are occasional opportunities for youth who are not a part of GYC to participate in activities.

Gwinnett Youth Commissioners receive leadership training that will benefit them in high school, college, and their careers. They also improve knowledge of local government and civic affairs to help them become engaged citizens. Youth Commissioners receive public speaking training to present their ideas for government leaders and elected officials as representatives of Gwinnett’s Youth. They are also provided opportunities to earn service hours.

Youth Commissioners who show continued investment in themselves and service to Gwinnett County may receive other opportunities or benefits, including letters of recommendation, speaking roles at County events, and/or leadership roles within the Gwinnett Youth Commission!

Youth are expected to miss no more than two summer training sessions, which are from 8:00am to 4:00pm. More than two absences may result in a participant’s inability to be fully inducted as a Youth Commissioner. Inducted youth commissioners will hold monthly 90-minutemeetings throughout the school year and may only miss two meetings. Orientation and the Induction Ceremony are required sessions.