The Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council (MYLC) advises Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and city government on issues that impact youth and helps shape strategies to improve their communities.
This partnership between the City of Indianapolis, Marion County Commission on Youth, and Leadership Indianapolis empowers youth voices by providing input and perspectives to the Indianapolis mayor and city leadership, training young people to become civically engaged and fostering a lifelong sense of civic responsibility.
Program Overview | July 2024 – May 2025
The 7th MYLC cohort is focused on amplifying youth voice through empowerment in civic engagement. Orientation was held at Eagle Creek Park Peace Learning Center, featuring leadership-building activities and discussions on key youth issues. Monthly meetings included sessions with city leaders, elected officials, and community advocates. Members identified eight key areas of focus:
- Violence / Violent Environments
- Food / Hunger / Poverty
- Curriculum Disparities Between Schools
- Immigration Challenges
- Substance Abuse
- Social Media
- Environmental
- Community Development
Members engage in local government by attending City County Council meetings as well as Committee meetings and hearings, by meeting with leaders from organizations across the City, and by sharing their concerns, ideas in person and in writing with our City’s decision makers. The MYLC meets monthly from August to May to learn about issues they care most about, to gain skills in advocacy, and to build a network and community of peers who share their interest and passion for change. The 2024/25 MYLC has engaged in community events, met with Mayor Joe Hogsett and his staff numerous times, attending and helped with MCCOY’s Youth Day at the Statehouse, participated in several community volunteering opportunities, and celebrated their work through fun gatherings.
What MYLC Members Do
What MYLC Members Do:
- Engage in policy discussions on issues impacting Indianapolis youth — identified and prioritized by the members of the MYLC.
- Meet with city leaders, business professionals, and community organizations.
- Participate in community service projects and civic engagement initiatives.
- Learn about how government, business, and nonprofit sectors function in the city.
MYLC Impact & Success:
- Since its founding in 2016, the MYLC has engaged over a hundred young leaders from across Indianapolis.
- MYLC alumni seek higher education taking on leadership roles, and many pursuing careers in public service.
- Members have contributed significant hours of community service through the program.
- The council has met with city officials, business leaders, and nonprofit organizations to discuss youth-centered policies.
- Many past participants reported gaining valuable leadership, advocacy, and public speaking skills.
- MYLC is described by members as “life-changing” and “an incredible opportunity to make a real difference.”
Program Structure:
- 25 members serve on the council each year, selected through an application process during the spring semester. Rising junior and senior high school students are eligible to apply.
- 10 monthly meetings, including orientation and additional learning experiences.
- 6 Community Impact Service Days focused on volunteerism and civic engagement.
Join the Next MYLC Cohort
Who Should Apply?
- Students passionate about leadership, community service, and making a difference.
- Those interested in policy, government, and civic engagement.
- Individuals who want to develop skills in critical thinking, communication, time management, and leadership.
- The council is intentionally diverse, representing different backgrounds, schools, and perspectives.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must reside in Marion County.
- Must be a junior, or senior during the 2025-2026 school year.
- Must commit to attending 10 monthly Saturday sessions and 4-6 community volunteer events.
Benefits of MYLC Membership:
- Directly impact city decision-making by advising the mayor and his team.
- Gain real-world leadership experience and professional networking opportunities.
- Build workplace, communication, and civic engagement skills.
- Be part of a youth-led movement for positive change in Indianapolis.
MYLC Partners
The MYLC is a collaborative partnership between the Marion County Commission on Youth and the City of Indianapolis.
Generous support for the council is provided by the Lilly Endowment and the City of Indianapolis.
