Agendas & Minutes
Agendas are available before the meetings. Minutes are available and approved.
View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes
Members
- Madison Bradley, Chair
- Amaya Mercado
- Aiden Pimentel, Treasurer
- Kaiya Jess, Member
- Ty Bishoff, Member
- Brianna Touseul, Member
- Bonnie Veilleux, Adult Advisor
- Miranda Jennings, Adult Advisor
Overview
The Winchendon Youth Council (WYC) serves as the official voice of young people in Winchendon, ensuring that youth perspectives are meaningfully represented in town decision-making. The Council provides a structured, civic forum where youth can engage with local government, develop leadership skills, and help shape the present and future of their community.
Building on years of youth leadership through the Youth Changemakers initiative, the Winchendon Youth Council embeds youth voice into town governance in a sustainable, non-grant-dependent way. Members work collaboratively to identify issues affecting young people, propose solutions, and advise town leaders on policies and initiatives that impact youth.
Purpose
The Winchendon Youth Council exists to:
Represent the interests, experiences, and ideas of Winchendon’s youth
Advise the Select Board, Town Manager, School District, and other public bodies on youth-related matters
Encourage civic engagement and leadership development among young residents
Foster a culture of inclusion, community pride, and shared responsibility
What the Youth Council Does
Youth Council members:
Evaluate and discuss issues facing youth in Winchendon
Develop youth-focused proposals, initiatives, and recommendations
Serve as a liaison between young residents and town government
Engage peers to gather feedback and increase awareness of civic opportunities
Participate in town meetings, committees, and community events
Support youth-led projects and programs that strengthen the community
Membership
The Winchendon Youth Council is composed of:
Seven (7) youth members, ages 14–19
Two (2) non-voting adult advisors, one of whom must be a Town staff member
Up to two (2) non-voting youth alternates
Members must be residents of Winchendon. Youth from all local and regional high schools are welcome to apply.
Meetings
The Youth Council meets at least monthly (or bi-weekly as needed). Meetings are posted in accordance with the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law. All members receive Open Meeting Law training.
Leadership & Civic Learning
Youth Council members elect officers annually and gain hands-on experience with:
The ultimate goal of the Winchendon Youth Council is to prepare young people to be informed, engaged, and effective lifelong civic leaders.