Scots Valley Council OKs United Way youth liaison program, authorizes $1,300 for two stipends

The Scots Valley City Council unanimously approved participation in United Way of Santa Cruz County’s Pathways to Possibility youth liaison program and authorized $1,300 in the fiscal year 26/27 budget to fund stipends for two student participants.

United Way coordinator Suki Ramos told the council the program pairs two high‑school students with council mentors to provide ongoing leadership training, civic education and a year‑long project. “My name is Suki Ramos and I’m the coordinator at United Way of Santa Cruz County,” Ramos said, describing the program’s prior implementations in Capitola and Santa Cruz and the organization’s role in recruitment, training and program coordination.

A youth participant, Emul, who identified himself as the president of Pathways to Possibility, described how the program helps students “dive deeper into more real world problems” and urged the council to provide regular opportunities for youth voice. Council members praised the students’ presentations and their commitment to civic engagement.

The staff recommendation before the council was that Scots Valley participate in the program and that the city allocate $1,300 in FY 26/27 to support two stipends. Council Member [name used in roll call] moved the measure, it was seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

The council’s approval authorizes staff to include the $1,300 allocation in next year’s budget process and to work with United Way on program logistics and mentorship assignments. United Way will handle recruitment and program administration, while the city’s role is limited to participation and funding support.

The council did not attach additional conditions beyond the funding authorization; the item concluded with councilmembers expressing support for continuing the city’s partnership with the youth program.