Posted: Wednesday, June 27, 2012 11:50 am

What is the Strathmore Assembly of Youth (SAY)?

SAY was established by the Town of Strathmore in October 2011 to provide feedback and advice on proposed strategies, recommendations and findings.  Approximately 15 members (ages 15-21) are selected for a one-year volunteer term and during that time they provide Town Council with an ongoing youth perspective / help identify important issues for youth in Strathmore.  They may also comment and make recommendations on current initiatives and suggest ideas to improve the quality of services to youth. A special project is completed each year to address a specific issue SAY identifies as important to youth in the community.

What happens at a SAY Meeting?

Meetings occur on the second Wednesday of each month from 4-6 pm, where we discuss issues Town Council would like youth input about and work on planning our yearly special project. There may be special guest presenters, or a problem to tackle, a question to answer, brainstorming or evaluating…

SAY members also attend Town Council meetings on a rotating basis, where they may be asked to provide input or report back to SAY. These meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 7:30-9:30pm. Members will be required to attend approximately 3 Town Council meetings during their term.

Who makes a good SAY member?

We look for a wide range of backgrounds and experiences to support the work of SAY.  As long as you are open minded, enjoy sharing your opinion, and are passionate about making a difference for youth and families in Strathmore…we want you to apply!

What is expected of me?

As a member of SAY, you are expected to attend 90% of SAY meetings in their entirety (there is 1 meeting per month for 10 months), participate fully in the discussions, do a small amount of research and be respectful of other SAY members at all times. 

I have a lot on the go….school, a job, extra-curricular activities…can I join?

The most important part of being on SAY is being able to attend the meetings and contribute.  If blocking off Wednesday in the late afternoon will work with your schedule, then that is great!  If you think that you might not be able to attend all of the meetings because of sports, work, school or other personal commitments, then SAY might not be a good fit.

I am kind of shy and haven’t had a lot of experience being on committees.  Is this only for “leader” types?

No!  Anyone can apply as long as they feel comfortable voicing their opinion with other youth, are respectful, and passionate about making a difference for youth and families in SAY.  Being on the Strathmore Assembly of Youth will help you to develop leadership skills and looks great on a resume! 

What topics will we cover?

Each year is different.  In 2011-2012, SAY spent a lot of time discussing vandalism and graffiti. Topics such as land use in Strathmore, drug and alcohol use, bike trails, and road maintenance and signage were also reviewed. New topics are identified each year based on issues that youth are facing and Town of Strathmore priorities.

What are some of the benefits of being on SAY?

There are many benefits!  During the meetings, you will gain knowledge, have fun, and make new friends.  Outside of the meetings you may find new networking opportunities, be given the opportunity to attend town events as a Youth Ambassador, sit on other town committees, and volunteer at special events. SAY members have could use their experiences to earn scholarships for post-secondary school and fulfilling jobs in the community and in government!

 I have more questions. Where can I find additional information?

You can email us at strathmoreassemblyofyouth@gmail.com, find us on Facebook at Strathmore Assembly of Youth, or follow us on Twitter @S_YouthAssembly.

Click here for the Membership application