Sandy City Council honors Youth Council for outstanding service and civic engagement

The Sandy City Council meeting on April 29, 2025, celebrated the achievements of the Sandy Youth Council (SYC), highlighting the program's significant impact on local youth and the community. Council Chair Erin Nikiser opened the meeting with a warm welcome, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement among young residents.

The SYC, reestablished three years ago after a five-year hiatus, has successfully engaged high school students from ten different schools in Sandy. This year, 31 members participated, contributing over 650 hours of volunteer service to various city events and initiatives. The council's mission focuses on fostering community engagement, civic responsibility, and leadership development among its members.

During the meeting, program advisors Chris Edwards and Liz Theriault presented a year-in-review, showcasing the SYC's activities, including participation in a statewide mock committee hearing and tours of local government facilities. Members shared personal reflections on their experiences, highlighting the friendships formed and the valuable lessons learned about community service and local governance.

Notably, Will Buckley received the Outstanding Service Award for his exceptional commitment, logging over 50 hours of volunteer work. The meeting concluded with a heartfelt recognition of graduating seniors, who are moving on to pursue higher education and new opportunities. Council members expressed their pride in the youth's contributions and encouraged continued civic involvement.

The council's support for the SYC underscores a commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, ensuring that young voices are heard and valued in the community. As these students transition into adulthood, their experiences in the SYC will undoubtedly shape their future roles as engaged citizens.