Teens ages 14 to 19 invited to apply for Colorado Youth Advisory Council
Virtual info session set for May 31; applications due June 5
Courtesy photo/Colorado Youth Advisory Council
Colorado teens ages 14 to 19 are invited to apply for the state legislature’s Colorado Youth Advisory Council for the 2026-27 term, with applications due June 5, according to a Sunday statement.
The nonpartisan council, known as COYAC, brings together young people from across the state to research issues, develop policy ideas and present recommendations to lawmakers. Members serve on committees focused on topics affecting youth and work directly with legislators, community members and subject-matter experts.
Open positions include seats representing the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, as well as over 20 state senate districts. Three additional at-large positions are available, with an emphasis on ensuring geographic and demographic diversity, particularly from rural communities.
Participants in the program study how laws are made in Colorado while building skills in research, public speaking and collaboration. Members are also trained to engage in civil, nonpartisan dialogue and gain experience working with peers from varied backgrounds.
“COYAC is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become civically involved before the age of 18,” said current member and high school senior Sophie Tipper in the statement. “While we as youth might not be able to vote, we are able to directly influence policy for our generation.”
“COYAC opens the floor for deep debate on issues facing youth and allows members to critically think about problems facing our state,” she continued. “As a member of COYAC, I am able to see problems in my community, bring them to legislators, and work with my committee to reach a beneficial resolution.”
According to the organization, past council recommendations have contributed to legislation addressing issues such as student mental health, food waste in schools, substance use, and youth involvement in education and environmental policy.
COYAC will host a virtual information session May 31 for interested applicants. To learn more about the council or to apply, visit COYAC.org/Apply.
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