Youth In Government Program

Beginning in 2007, the City of Middletown introduced an exciting opportunity for youth in their community. The Youth in Government initiative, along with being an extremely unique program, relates to the key developmental need for youth to be valued and provided with meaningful roles in their community. Empowering youth in government reinforces this need and provides opportunities that will promote a life-long commitment to civic engagement. It also addresses a key Developmental Asset that is lacking in our community. In a recent survey of Middletown youth, it was brought to the community’s attention that only 17% of Middletown youth feel valued by the community (down from 19% in 2006). The Youth in Government program was put into place in order to purposefully and intentionally address the above issue.

Applications for the program can be found at the bottom of the page HERE. Any questions can be directed to Justin Carbonella (860-854-6030).

The Mayor is authorized to appoint youth representatives who are both Middletown residents in grades 10-12 on boards, committees, and commissions, for one-year terms, beginning on July 1 of each year. All youth members shall be able to and are encouraged to participate in discussion of the issues, however, because of their age they are not permitted to vote.

The Middletown Youth Services Bureau assists the Mayor in recruitment as well as training and support of students throughout their term. The Boards and Commissions which are involved with this program are:

· Board of Health

· Cable Advisory Committee

· Citizens Advisory Committee

· Committee Concerning People with Disabilities

· Design Review and Preservation

· Human Rights Commission

· Long Hill Estate Authority

· Middletown Commission on the Arts

· Middletown School Readiness Council

· Parks and Recreation Commission

· Redevelopment Agency

· Youth Services Advisory Board