COMMUNITY OPINION: YOUTH VOICES MATTER
Crosspost from Benitolink
Community Opinion by Gabriel Mendez, Youth Media and Communications Fellow at Youth Alliance.
A small town nestled in the Central Coast, Hollister, California is a vibrant community with a rich heritage. While its rich landscapes and climate have a charming appeal, it’s the collective voices of its youth that breathes life into this city and the importance of young people’s voices can’t be overstated because it plays a key role in shaping the present and future located in Hollister, California. In this article, we will explore why youth voice matters and the transformative impact it has on our community.
Fresh perspectives: Young people bring fresh perspectives to the table without the weight of tradition or preconceptions. Our open-mindedness and innovative thinking inject new energy into Hollister. By encouraging young people to actively participate in community affairs, we tap into the wellspring of creativity and untapped potential that propels our city forward.
Representing the next generation: Youth voices are important in ensuring that the interests, concerns and aspirations of the next generation are accurately represented. We are uniquely positioned to understand the challenges their peers face, whether in education, employment, mental health, or environmental sustainability. By actively involving youth in the decision-making process, Hollister can have an inclusive and forward-thinking community that meets the needs of all community members.
Civic engagement and empowerment: Providing opportunities for young people to voice opinions and participate actively in community affairs encourages civic engagement and a sense of empowerment. When younger individuals feel heard and valued, they develop deeper connections with the community and take greater ownership of its success. Young people who are encouraged to get involved in local government, community organizations and volunteer activities develop a lifelong commitment to making a positive difference.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gabriel Mendez
An intern for California Legislature Assembly - Member Robert Rivas & Youth Media & Communications Fellow for Youth Alliance, Gabriel has planted his footprints in various community projects all while being a Junior at Hollister High School. Gabriel has managed information through social media outlets serving as a platform for conversation and sharing of knowledge, trained educators on the creation, development, and execution of learning programs, and developed a teacher training program for students interested in pursuing a career in education. As a member of the associated student body, Gabriel served as the 2022 - 2023 Commissioner of Clubs overseeing 64 clubs on campus. He founded his own club in 2021, Radiate Positivity, which is led by leaders who focus on creating, nurturing, and sustaining an inclusive culture where differences influence innovative solutions.