Polk County honors youth programs coordinator and previews March 17, 2026 youth conference

Polk County commissioners on Sept. 9 recognized Annie, the county—s alcohol, drug and problem-gambling prevention coordinator, with a star recognition award and received a presentation about the county—s fourth annual youth conference, scheduled for March 17, 2026, at Western Oregon University.

The recognition highlighted Annie—s work to center youth voice in programming and to expand partnerships with school districts and local businesses. The county said Annie leads several youth-facing programs, including a youth conference, youth mini grants and the Dallas Youth Garden, and that she helps convene student leadership teams to review and design programming.

During the presentation, staff said the conference invites about 600 rural high school juniors; roughly 400 students attended last year. The conference offers 10 career-path tracks, including college-bound fields and trades, and features hands-on demonstrations. Staff noted Polk County Fire brought an ambulance display, Riverbend provided trade vehicles and Hillsborough supplied a K-9 demonstration; presenters said Polk County does not have its own K-9 unit.

Bridal DeMoe, identified in the meeting record as director of Family Community Outreach (FCO), was named as the staff member who nominated Annie. In accepting the award, Annie said, "I just really appreciate this award. It means a lot to me." Staff also showed a short video from last year—s conference and invited commissioners to attend the March 17, 2026 event.

The board handled routine business at the start of the meeting. The presiding official led unanimous votes to approve the meeting agenda for Sept. 9 and the minutes of Aug. 26; movers and seconders were not specified in the record.

County staff emphasized that the conference aims to broaden students— exposure to careers beyond their local communities, including trades and law enforcement demonstrations that students might not otherwise see locally. The presentation noted the youth mini grant program is reviewed and awarded by a student leadership team and that staff pursue external grants each year to sustain the mini grants.

No regulatory authorities, formal ordinances or grant awards were decided at this meeting item; the segment consisted of recognition, a program presentation and an invitation for commissioners to attend the upcoming conference.

The board adjourned after covering the recognition and related agenda business.