Hillsborough County Youth Leadership Council (HCYLC)

The Youth Leadership Council provides Hillsborough County high school students grades 9-12 an opportunity to participate in civic, leadership, and community service programs to help develop leadership ability and instill a commitment of community service and life-long civic responsibility.

Deadline for 2024 - 2025 completed application: September 1, 2024

• Current students in grades 9-12 attending any Hillsborough County High School

• Learn through the core programs:
  • Open Forums with County Commissioners - learn key objectives of the Hillsborough County Commission
  • Leadership 101 - learn skills for college and career success such as public speaking, resume writing, business etiquette, and interview skills
  • Community Service - as a group, members will select volunteer opportunities within the community
• Get the opportunity to:
  • Serve as ambassadors at various functions
  • Attend local and state meetings
  • Represent the organization at local, state, and national conferences

Applicant Requirements

• You must:
  • Have the desire to learn how County government works
  • Commit to one year of service on the Hillsborough County Youth Leadership Council
  • Have a strong desire to make Hillsborough County a better place for all residents
  • Want to serve as an advocate for peers in the community by voicing their ideas and concerns
• References:
  • You must submit two references
    • Reference form
  • Community leaders, advisors, school faculty or principals, organization leaders, coaches or club sponsors are acceptable references
  • References may not be related to you
  • Recommendation letters are acceptable in lieu of reference form

Advisory Board

• You will act in an advisory capacity to the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners
• You will research and discuss youth issues with County Commissioners in an open forum
• The Council will act as an advocacy body for county high school students by highlighting their concerns and promoting action items to effect change

1. Fill out the application
   • Submit it online
   • Download and print out paper form (form is not fillable - will need to fill out by hand)
   • Pick one up in the guidance office at participating schools
2. Have your parent or guardian sign the application
3. Submit two references, which can include:
   • Community leaders
   • Advisors
   • School faculty or principals
   • Organization leaders
   • Coaches or club sponsors
   • No relatives
4. Submit references and applications no later than September 1, 2023
5. Send in downloaded /paper applications and references by:
   Scanning and emailing
   OR
   Mailing to:
   HCYLC Application
   Attn: Christopher Hayes
   15510 Hooting Owls Place
   Tampa, FL 33624

• An appointed advisory committee of students and adults will:
  • Review the applications
  • Conduct interviews
  • Make recommendations for acceptance into the program

• Reference Form