A freshman at Romulus Central School has been selected to represent Seneca County on the New York Governor’s Youth Council, a statewide policy group composed of 62 young people aged 13-21. Delaney McDonald’s role on the council will allow her to voice the concerns and perspectives of the county’s youth to New York State policymakers while gaining hands-on experience with the democratic process. Delaney will participate in online regional meetings and statewide virtual training sessions focused on positive youth development. Additionally, council members are encouraged to attend the Association of New York Youth’s Bureau Leadership Forum and Legislative Day in February.
In her new role, Delaney will collaborate with other local youth to gather their opinions and concerns, ultimately focusing on a policy issue that impacts the community. “I enjoy being part of a team and working together towards a goal,” Delaney shared. The NYS Youth Council offers various focus areas, including youth mental health, the impact of social media on youth, substance use prevention, and youth engagement. “I love planning and helping others, and I believe there’s a lot that young people can do to make Seneca County an even better place to grow up.”
Delaney is 14 years old and already active in her school’s softball, cheerleading, and theater programs and is a dedicated Girl Scout. One of her proudest accomplishments is creating a clothing and hygiene closet at her school for her peers. Delaney’s nomination to the Youth Council was supported by the RiSE (Resilience and Inclusion for Students Everywhere) youth coalition and the Seneca County Substance Abuse Coalition, a program of the United Way of Seneca County, where she is an active volunteer.
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