Lawrence Mayor Deb Whitfield unveiled the Lawrence Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council, a new program designed to teach high school juniors and seniors how municipal government works while fostering leadership and service. The council will meet monthly from December 2026 through May, concluding with a presentation to the Lawrence City Council in June.
Program details and eligibility
Open to students who live in Lawrence Township or attend a high school within the township, the council also welcomes homeschooled youth residing in the city of Lawrence or the township. Applicants must submit a completed form to [email protected] by 11:59 p.m. on November 18.
What participants will do
Council members will develop leadership skills, collaborate on a youth‑led health initiative, and share their perspectives directly with the Mayor’s Office. In addition to regular meetings, students will have opportunities to meet local leaders, observe city operations, and contribute ideas that could shape future municipal policies.
Mayor Whitfield’s vision
Mayor Whitfield emphasized the importance of involving young people in civic life, noting that “our community thrives when families and faith‑centered values are passed to the next generation.” She added that the council reflects the administration’s commitment to empowering families and encouraging responsible citizenship.
How to apply
Interested students should visit the City of Lawrence website to download the application. Completed forms are to be emailed to the address above. The program’s start date is set for December 2026, with monthly gatherings scheduled through May and a final presentation slated for June before the city council.
Community impact
Local nonprofits and community groups have expressed support for the initiative, seeing it as a way to strengthen ties between the city government and its younger residents. By giving students a voice in municipal discussions, the council aims to build a pipeline of informed, engaged citizens who will carry forward the town’s traditional family values and faith‑based principles.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
