Youth Resource Directory Mission Statement
The creators of this directory strongly believe that youth and teenagers everywhere have the right to accessible and accurate information. This directory works to make this possible by creating a one-stop guide for youth and teens to find the answers they need in a life that can be overwhelming. We also stand strongly behind the promises Colin Powell made to youth everywhere - that young people should have caring adults in their lives, safe places to go during non-school hours, a healthy start that will lead to a healthy adulthood, marketable skills provided through work and internship opportunities and the opportunities to serve and give back to the community. This directory makes it easier for young people to find answers to any question they might have. We believe that knowledge is power and easy access to information can begin the process of empowerment. We believe that this directory can help young people to find ways to get involved, give back, get healthy and get smart.
City of Columbia Commission on Children and Youth
Mission Statement
The Commission on Children & Youth is a board appointed by the Mayor of Columbia and City Council and is made up of representatives from local government agencies, education institutions, youth organizations, community organizations, non-profit organizations and industry which serves to enhance and promote the well-being and comprehensive development of Columbia children and youth through collaborative action.
The general purpose of the Commission on Children & Youth is
- to improve the ability of public and private agencies to promote the health, safety, education, and development of the community's children and youth;
- to create an organizational structure to improve coordination and cooperation among youth serving agencies, non-profit community service organizations, and local government bodies; and
- to identify and remedy conditions which interfere with or prevent the community's children and youth from becoming healthy, productive members of society.
The Commission on Children & Youth functions as a developer, catalyst, and advocate for collaborative planning and implementation of comprehensive systems and services benefiting children, youth, and families. The Commission exists to continually raise community awareness about the needs and perspectives of children and youth in Columbia. The Commission works in close partnership with local elected officials, business leaders, volunteer organizations, youth representative, and officials from public and private agencies to plan and act cooperatively for a better future for the City of Columbia.
The role of young people on this Commission is of tremendous importance. They must be involved in issue identification, problem solving, and program strategies and planning. By providing area young people with an opportunity to invest themselves in their future, they will in turn have a stake in Columbia which will positively influence them in choosing to live and work here as adults.
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