News

A new year for Yac

Our Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) was born out of the idea that young people are experts on youth needs. The C3F YAC oversees grantmaking from the Youth Fund during our yearly Youth Needs Grant Cycle which aims to meet needs and advance opportunities for young people in Charlevoix County. Over the last 33 years, the YAC has awarded more than $1.4 million in grants to benefit this area's children, teens, and families.

The YAC is a group of talented and committed Charlevoix County high school students hailing from Beaver Island, Boyne City, Boyne Falls, Charlevoix, and East Jordan. This group is more than just a grant evaluation committee. They also advocate for youth voice in our community and serve as a catalyst for community service projects. Participation helps area youth develop critical leadership skills such as communication, teamwork, and decision-making. The YAC “helps students find a voice. It gives youth a chance to speak out and help their peers,” says Addy Burns, a junior at Boyne City High School.

Before the next YAC year, new members are recruited from each school to replace the graduating seniors. This year they welcomed new 9th grade members: Ryan Shooks - East Jordan, Calli Silva-Novak - Boyne Falls, Sunny Sherk - Boyne City, and Lucas Strahan – Charlevoix.

The YAC Executive Committee is comprised of various leadership positions with additional responsibilities that guide the YAC year. This year the Executive Committee members include: Emma Patten, President - Boyne City, Benjamin Schultz, Vice President – Charlevoix, Olivia Pineda-Andersen, Treasurer - Boyne Falls, Ayla Kemp – Secretary, Charlevoix, and Addy Burns, Social Media Coordinator - Boyne City

Other current members of the YAC include: Ella Boss - Charlevoix, Isabella Wise – East Jordan, Oliver Johnecheck – Boyne City, Riley Cannon – East Jordan, Sophie McDonough - Beaver Island, and William Webb – East Jordan.