Youth Advisory Council

“Make no decision about me, without me!”

Join Us

Teens to Trails’ Youth Advisory Council, known as the YAC, are students leaders who help create exciting, inclusive, and growth-oriented programming for school outdoor clubs in Maine. 

Our YAC members (grades 9-12) come to us from all over the state. They participate in meetings, join us for fun events and outdoor excursions, volunteer for our outdoor partners, and connect in-person to kick off the new school year.

See below to learn more about the YAC. We can’t wait to meet you and hear your ideas.


Teens to Trails’ Youth Advisory Council DETAILS:

Size: 6-8 students

Term: Up to four years, unless conflicts arise.

Qualifications:

  • Students in grades 9-12

  • You’re interested in learning/practicing leadership and sharing ideas at school

  • Your school Outdoor Club is registered with Teens to Trails

  • Not more than one council member per school

  • Pledge to attend and contribute to virtual, monthly meetings September-May

Responsibilities and Benefits:

  1. Teens to Trails board, staff and community members will support you by providing mentorship, career contacts and other helpful resources.

  2. YAC members design their own leadership model

  3. Monthly 75 min. virtual council meeting September - May

  4. Offer program design feedback to staff

  5. Contribute to Teens to Trails’ web and social media content

  6. Do your best to attend:
    • An overnight in August to shape our group and plan our year together (location tbd)
    • Our Bow Ties & Bean Boots fundraiser in March/April (Freeport)
    • Adventure Bound camping weekend in May (The Forks)

  7. Provide end-of-season feedback in late May, so we can continue to improve!

  8. Fully participating council members receive a $150 stipend in June and transportation reimbursement for programs.

With only one meeting a month, it is very easy to make being a part of the YAC work with school, sports, homework, and other activities.
— -Else Goebel-Bain, 2022-23 YAC member