New York City Football Club (NYCFC) is proud to announce a new initiative to help empower the voices of urban youth throughout the five boroughs.
On August 18, 2016, the Club’s partner foundation “City in the Community” launched its very first Youth Leadership Council (YLC), a Citywide initiative led by NYC Service – a division of the Office of the Mayor - bringing together 18 young leaders from our various affiliates and community programs to work out issues through policy, practice, and advocacy service.
Using soccer as the primary platform, the “City in the Community” Youth Leadership Council will organize soccer festivals, workshops and collaborate with other established councils to tackle local problems facing youth in underserved areas.
Simultaneously, the young leaders will develop leadership skills to promote a culture of a youth voice throughout the City.
Emily Campos, Young Leader Advsior, said: “Growing up in the Bronx, I didn’t have access to many opportunities, but once I started volunteering, it changed the dynamic for me.
“I saw how soccer made such a difference in various communities by eliminating negative boundaries and saw that my efforts made a difference in these kids’ lives.
“It’s incredible to see how much confidence the young leaders have gained already. Using the power of soccer, our Youth Leadership Council will leave New York City a better place.”
Paul Jeffries, NYCFC Director of Community Development, said: “Not only do we see this as a great opportunity to provide young people with responsibility and practice in developing their leadership skills, we also value their voice on issues affecting them in the community and it’s a priority for us to listen and engage with youth to gain insights and knowledge about how we can be support the communities we serve.”
“City in the Community” Youth Leadership Council is only a small part of a greater network of NYC Youth Leadership Councils.
Since July 2014, NYC Service, a division of the Office of the Mayor, has partnered with many City agencies and community-based organizations to help foster this new citywide initiative.
NYC Service aims to engage 10% of all youth in New York City on a NYC Youth Leadership Council by 2020, which converts to 30,000 adolescents across the city.
NYC Service believes that participation in a Youth Leadership Council will provide opportunities to develop leadership skills as well as college and career readiness.
NYC Chief Service Officer, Paula Gavin said: “NYC Service is thrilled to have the New York City Football Club join our NYC Youth Leadership Council network through City in the Community.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for NYC youth to use their skills and talents to build leadership, while bringing health, education, and safe community spaces to other youth around the City.
“Together, Youth Leadership Councils are elevating youth service as a leadership development strategy that will strengthen the fabric of our City and we’re so proud to have the commitment of the New York City Football Club.”
