The Somerset County Board of County Commissioners is proud of our outstanding Youth Leadership Somerset program. Because Somerset County is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, we are evolving Youth Leadership Somerset into a new phase.

We are excited to announce that staff are diligently reviewing the program’s mission, application process, and curriculum, with the goal of better serving the needs of today’s youth by creating equitable opportunities for engagement in a revitalized program.

Since its inception 23 years ago, over 800 Youth Leadership Somerset participants have met local leaders, learned about Somerset County resources, developed problem solving skills, and expanded their networks of contacts and friends. None of this would have been possible without the support of our Somerset County Board of County Commissioners as well as the outstanding and dedicated community volunteers and County staff who have developed, facilitated, and participated in this leadership program since 2002.

For additional questions, please email YouthLeadership@co.somerset.nj.us.

 

Youth Leadership Somerset is a nine-month program for high school students who live in Somerset County. This program aims to build an active, educated, and involved network of young people who are empowered to guide the future of this community.

Youth Leadership sessions are held one Saturday a month from September through May, and typically include presentations by community leaders, discussion, small group challenges, and interactive programming such as site visits or walking tours.

As part of this unique opportunity, students participate in dynamic and engaging sessions designed with two goals in mind: 

Exploration of current issues in Somerset County.

Each session, students are given the opportunity to learn from leaders in our community. Examples of topics can include the environment, mental health, law enforcement, emergency response, housing, economic development, local government, justice, healthcare, and culture.

Personal development designed to build leadership skills.

Youth Leadership Somerset will challenge you to think about new ideas, enable you to form connections with peers and mentors, and inspire your community involvement for years to come. Fill out an application to become a part of this exciting leadership experience!

Former Youth Leadership Somerset participants have said:

“Youth Leadership Somerset has been a wonderful place to ponder important economic and social questions. The sessions have been filled with discovery and growth.”

“I have a greater understanding of how to get involved in my community.”

“Connecting and learning from people who are different than me has made me a better person.”

For answers to logistical questions about this program, please visit the FAQ section of this webpage.

For information about applications, please visit the Applying to Youth Leadership Somerset section of this webpage.

For questions about Youth Leadership Somerset, email the program staff at youthleadership@co.somerset.nj.us: