Members of the Youth Voice 1 Vision, the Mayor's Youth Advisory Council, presented their proposal for a Healthy Indoor Bill of Rights during a recent city council meeting. The initiative aims to establish a framework for promoting health and wellness among youth in Rochester's recreational centers.

The presentation was led by Heaven Vega, a 17-year-old member of the council, who emphasized the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for children. The proposed bill outlines ten rights for youth, including access to safe spaces, healthy relationships, opportunities for personal development, and nutritious meals. The initiative is backed by a three-year grant, with the first year focused on planning and community engagement, followed by campaigns and implementation in subsequent years.

The council highlighted the results of a survey conducted among local youth, revealing strong interest in activities such as nature exploration, cooking classes, and leadership development. Specifically, 88% of respondents expressed a desire for opportunities to enhance their leadership skills.

Council President Melendez acknowledged the continuity of this initiative, referencing a previous outdoor bill of rights, and expressed interest in understanding the current needs of the centers. The meeting underscored the commitment to fostering environments where youth can thrive physically, socially, and emotionally, paving the way for healthier futures.