How It Works
A Simple Framework for Engaging Youth in the Political Landscape of Congressional Districts Across the Nation
Our 5-Step Approach
Below is Our 5-Step Approach to Establishing a Congressional Youth Advisory Council (CYAC)
Step 1: Decide to Start a Youth Council
A Youth Advisory Council is a way for your office to regularly connect with high school students in your district. These councils:
-Meet virtually or in person
-Feature speakers, discussions, and civic projects
-Offer feedback and insights to your office
We provide a detailed proposal, sample timelines, and example agendas to get you started.
Step 2: Open Applications
Offices usually accept students through a short application process. We provide a template that includes:
-Personal statements
-Resume + recommendations
-Parental/guardian commitment
-Flexibility to choose cohort size, grades (usually 9–12), and program term
We recommend a fall, spring, and/or a summer cohort, each running for 3–5 months, with a small to medium group of students (10–30).
Step 3: Set Your Schedule
Step 3: Set Your Schedule
Youth Councils are flexible. You can choose:
-1–4 meetings per month
-Virtual, hybrid, or in-person format
-Guest speakers, mock debates, or policy discussions
-A final project or presentation to close out the term
We’ll provide sample agendas and ideas from current models already in place.
Step 4: Engage and Grow
Throughout the term, students can:
-Interact with your office staff and elected Member
-Learn about the legislative process
-Share youth perspectives on real-world issues
-Build leadership and civic skills
You can also offer a certificate of completion at the end of each cohort — a meaningful addition to a student’s resume or college application.
Step 5: Stay in Touch
Many students stay involved even after their term ends. Offices may:
-Invite returning students to mentor new members
-Include alumni in special events
-Use the council as a talent pipeline for internships or youth-focused events
HYLN remains available for support, brainstorming, and highlighting your district as a model for others.
You Choose the Format, We’ll Help You Launch
Each district is different. Whether you’re rural, urban, or somewhere in between, Youth Councils can be shaped to fit your community. We’re here to help make it work for you.
Ready to get started or want to learn more?
Schedule a Call or Request Materials Via Our Contact Form
Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders
The House Youth Leadership Network is dedicated to empowering young individuals by cultivating political engagement and developing leadership skills. We encourage you to consider establishing a Congressional Youth Advisory Council within your district.
Legal Notice
The House Youth Leadership Network is a student-led civic initiative. It is not a registered nonprofit organization, government entity, or official affiliate of the United States Congress or any congressional office.
This project was created by students to promote youth civic literacy and leadership by encouraging the development of Youth Advisory Councils in congressional districts. While we collaborate informally with congressional offices, all programs are locally operated and independently structured by those offices.
Materials and resources shared through this website are for educational and informational purposes only. They are intended to support civic engagement and may be freely adapted and used by congressional offices, educators, and community leaders. No rights are reserved.
If you have questions or would like to connect with the project team, please email us at chace.olsen@hyln.org.