PHOTO #1: Members of the 2024-2025 Mayor’s Youth Council pose for a photo with Mayor Duane Crocker and Special Projects Manager Keisha Smith, left, during a City Council meeting.
PHOTO #2: Members of the 2024-2025 Mayor’s Youth Council take part in a guided tour of the Public Safety Headquarters during construction.
High school students with an interest in civic involvement can apply to serve on the Mayor’s Youth Council for the upcoming school year.
This student-led group began in 2022 as a collaborative effort between the City of Victoria and local high school students. Students will have the opportunity to plan and execute service projects, learn about city government, develop leadership skills and bring awareness to issues that are important to Victoria’s youth.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn firsthand about the local governance that affects their daily lives,” said Mayor Duane Crocker. “Many past participants have expressed that this program weighed favorably on their college applications, so it is clear that civic awareness and involvement help to set our students up for success. I am excited for City staff to be able to meet and build relationships with some of the bright young people in our community.”
At the end of the school year, members will be recognized at a City Council meeting.
How to apply
PHOTO #3: Members of the 2024-2025 Mayor’s Youth Council were able to try on firefighting gear during a tour of Victoria Fire Department facilities.
Applications for the 2025-2026 school year will be open through Aug. 31. To apply, visit www.victoriatx.gov/youthcouncil. New members must submit a signed letter of recommendation.
The program is open to high school juniors and seniors residing in Victoria County, including homeschooled students.
Meetings will be held the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 4 p.m. The program will include site tours of City facilities and service learning projects throughout the community.
For more information about the program, contact Special Projects Manager Keisha Smith at 361-485-3030 or ksmith@victoriatx.gov.