Lee County Youth Council: Empowering Our Future, One Project at a Time
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Collapse ▲As the new school year approaches, the Lee County Youth Council is gearing up for an impactful year. This dedicated group of high schoolers, including returning active members from last year, isn’t new to making a difference in our community. The Youth Council has been successfully collaborating with the County Commissioners, Lee County Libraries, and Parks and Recreation to ensure youth voices are heard in spaces they haven’t traditionally been invited. Building on this strong foundation, the council will begin the school year in August, focusing on initiatives that directly align with the Lee County Strategic Plan goals.
The benefits of such a program touch upon aspects of youth development, fostering well-rounded, engaged, and capable young citizens. Members of any youth organization are invited to participate in the Lee County Youth Council to ensure their organization has a voice in the community. Public, private, and homeschools are asked to have representation on the council.
In an increasingly complex world, providing young people with a sense of purpose and belonging is vital for their well-being. The Youth Council offers a structured environment where students can connect with peers who share a passion for making a difference. By tackling real-world issues, they gain a sense of accomplishment, build self-esteem, and develop resilience. Knowing their voices are heard and valued contributes significantly to their overall mental and emotional health. When young people feel empowered to shape their environment, they feel more connected and positive about their future.
A goal of the Lee County Youth Council is to ignite a lifelong passion for civic engagement and love for our community. By actively participating in discussions about the Lee County Strategic Plan, understanding its objectives related to areas like “Health and Well-being,” “Education,” and “Community Safety,” and then translating those into actionable projects, our youth gain an invaluable, hands-on understanding of local government and community development. They learn how decisions are made, how to advocate for their ideas, and how to work collaboratively with adults to effect positive change. This direct involvement builds a foundation for responsible citizenship, encouraging them to be active participants in our democratic process.
Beyond the projects, the Youth Council helps members build important life skills like practicing talking clearly about their ideas, working with others, problem-solving, and leading a group. These are the very skills employers seek, and the experiences gained within the Lee County Youth Council will provide a significant advantage as our students transition into higher education and the workforce.
The Lee County Youth Council is more than just a group of students; it’s an investment in the future leadership and well-being of our community. As they begin their work this August, we encourage everyone in Lee County to support these young innovators. Their dedication promises not only to address key strategic goals but also to inspire a new generation of active, confident, and compassionate citizens. If you know of any students who should be members on this council, please send them this information and have them contact an advisor. Corrie Douglas Brattin and Pam Kerley will serve as the 2025/2026 program advisors for this group.
Corrie Douglas Brattin has a master’s degree in Library and Information Sciences and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a literacy focus. She has been working with youth in various communities across the country for over 20 years, from infancy to the teen years. She has helped to create and run school projects and clubs, and has developed and led numerous programs with our local Lee County Libraries community members. Her driving motivation is seeing the look on kids’ faces when they learn something new. Contact her at cbrattin@leecountync.gov or (919) 718-4665.
Pam Kerley has a master’s degree in Youth, Family, and Community Science and is the 4-H Program Assistant at the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Lee County Center. 4-H is a positive youth development program that offers activities to fit various interests, backgrounds, budgets, and schedules. In Lee County, 4-H provides opportunities for youth through in-school programs, after-school activities, clubs, and camps, welcoming all children eager to have fun, learn, and grow. In North Carolina, 4-H is powered by NC State Cooperative Extension and NC A&T University, bringing expert knowledge, resources, and practical tools to enrich daily life and support community well-being. Contact her at pkerley@ncsu.edu or (919) 775-5624.