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Youth Leadership Programs Transition Update

Important information for families regarding changes to Somerset County’s youth leadership programs.

Somerset County is currently transitioning its youth leadership programming.

Youth Leadership Somerset (YLS) has officially concluded and will not return in its previous format
The September 2026–June 2027 term will be the final cohort of the Somerset County Youth Council (SCYC) as it currently exists
A new, unified youth leadership program is being developed to better serve students in the future

During this transition, the County is developing a new, unified youth leadership program that builds on the strengths and legacy of both YLS and SCYC. This future program will focus on leadership development, civic engagement, and meaningful, youth-led community impact.

If you were seeking information about Youth Leadership Somerset, this page provides details on current opportunities and what to expect moving forward.

Stay Connected

For the most up-to-date information, we encourage you to check this page regularly for updates and review the Frequently Asked Questions, which will be updated as new details become available.

If you have additional questions, please contact us at: Youthcouncil@somersetcountynj.gov

Leadership In Action

The Somerset County Youth Council was established to develop leadership skills and to give youth a forum where their ideas and concerns can be expressed and conveyed to the Board of County Commissioners. Members are actively solicited from middle schools and high schools (both public and private) in Somerset County. Activities of the council are coordinated by the students to promote youth leadership. Youth Council members develop ideas for programming that can be implemented in the community.

Mission

About the Program

The Somerset County Youth Council is a leadership development program that empowers students to become active, engaged members of their community.

Participants build leadership, communication, and teamwork skills through interactive sessions, collaboration with peers, and community service. A central part of the program is a team-based group project, where students identify a real community need and create a solution that makes a meaningful impact.

Through this experience, students will:

Develop leadership and public speaking skills
Learn about local government and community issues
Participate in service and civic engagement
Work in teams to plan and implement a community project

The program brings together a diverse group of students from across Somerset County to learn, lead, and make a difference.

Program Dates:
September 2026 – June 2027

What Students Will Gain

Participants will:

Develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills
Learn about local government and community issues
Engage in meaningful service and project-based work
Connect with community leaders and organizations

This final cohort also offers a unique opportunity for students to contribute to the evolution of future youth leadership programming in Somerset County.

Program Commitment

Participation in the Youth Council requires a strong commitment to both attendance and active involvement.

Time Commitment:

2 monthly Thursday evening meetings (1.5 hours each)
Monthly service or project-based work (Occassional evenings and weekends)
Additional time for group project collaboration (October–May)

What’s Expected:

Attend and actively participate in meetings and activities
Contribute consistently to your group project
Communicate in advance if you are unable to attend
Work collaboratively with peers and follow through on responsibilities

This program is designed to be hands-on and team-based, meaning each member plays an important role in the group’s success.

Youth Council in Action

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