Long Beach opens applications for Youth Advisory Council inviting young leaders to help shape city policies and programs

Long Beach, California – The City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services is inviting young residents to take a more active role in local government by applying to join the Office of Youth Development’s Youth Advisory Council. Applications will be accepted through Aug. 7, 2026, giving eligible youth an opportunity to influence decisions that affect young people across the city.

Now entering its fifth year, the Youth Advisory Council gives residents between the ages of 16 and 26 a chance to work directly with city leaders while helping guide important programs, policies, and investments focused on youth. Council members contribute to the implementation of the Youth and Emerging Adults Strategic Plan, provide input on Measure US Youth Fund investments, and help organize the city’s annual Youth Summit.

Mayor Rex Richardson said young residents continue to play an important role in shaping Long Beach’s future.

“Investing in young people means investing in the future of Long Beach,” Richardson said. “Our Youth Advisory Council continues to demonstrate that young people bring valuable ideas, fresh perspectives and real leadership to City decision making. Their voices help shape policies and programs that strengthen our community.”

Opportunity offers leadership experience and community impact

To qualify, applicants must be between 16 and 26 years old by Sept. 1, 2026, live in Long Beach, have a strong interest in issues affecting local youth, and be available to attend two-hour meetings twice each month at locations throughout the city.

The council is made up of nine members representing each City Council district, along with two at-large members. Those at-large representatives focus on advancing health equity in neighborhoods that have been disproportionately affected by violence, poverty, and poor health outcomes.

In addition to serving their community, members receive a $50 stipend for every meeting they attend, with the opportunity to earn as much as $1,100 during their one-year term. Participants also receive professional coaching, leadership training, and mentoring from city staff to help strengthen their communication, leadership, and civic engagement skills.

Applications are available through the city’s online application portal. For young people who do not have access to a computer or smartphone, paper applications can be submitted at the Ronald R. Arias Health Equity Center, any Long Beach Public Library location, or any Parks, Recreation and Marine Teen Center during normal business hours.

The application period closes at 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 7, and selected applicants are expected to be notified about four weeks after applications close.

Council members have already influenced major city initiatives

The Youth Advisory Council has become an important voice in city decision-making since it was created following recommendations from the 2022 Youth Design Sessions. The group supports the goals outlined in the Long Beach Youth Strategic Plan by working closely with city departments, commissions, community organizations, and the Mayor’s Office. Members also act as district representatives, ensuring that the experiences and concerns of young people from different neighborhoods are included in city discussions.

During the past year alone, council members helped shape the city’s Mental Health is Just Health campaign, participated in the Youth Voices series alongside the Long Beach Community Action Partnership and PADNET, guided the Youth Power Participatory Budgeting process for Measure US Youth Fund investments, and organized Youth Connect 2026, a citywide event celebrating youth leadership, creativity, and community involvement.

Current Youth Advisory Council member Nyechelle Shaw said the experience has changed how she views leadership and public service.

“Serving on the Youth Advisory Council changed the way I think about leadership and civic engagement,” Shaw said. “We weren’t just asked for our opinions, we were trusted to help shape real projects that affect young people across Long Beach. It showed me that youth voices aren’t just valued: they’re essential.”

City officials encourage eligible young residents who want to make a difference in their community to apply before the deadline. Through the Youth Advisory Council, participants gain valuable leadership experience while helping shape programs and decisions that will affect future generations of young people in Long Beach.