Youth Engagement

The Town of Devon values and wants to encourage connections with the young people who live here. We are looking to reach out to all youth in grade 7 and above (age 12-19) and would appreciate the five minutes that it should take to complete this questionnaire, to help us understand better how you might want your voice heard, what you might want to be involved in, and whether there are any barriers to attendance. (the only question with a lot of info it the one that describes the two options - the rest are really short, we promise!) Survey closes, April 21. Thank you for your time.

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* 1. How old are you?

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* 2. Do you currently participate in a casual youth group (such as Local, a church group, The Drop Zone)?

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* 3. Do you currently participate in a formal youth / leadership group (such as Local Leader, CLAW etc.)?

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* 4. If not currently, have you previously participated in a youth / leadership group?

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* 5. Do you attend any programs in Devon? Tick all that apply

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* 6. If you don't attend programs in Devon, what are the main reasons?

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* 7. What types of programs / activities would you like to see / see more of in Devon?

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* 8. How do you hear about things that are happening in Devon which may be of interest to you? (tick all that apply)

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* 9. Which school do you attend in Devon?

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* 10. THIS IS THE LONG ONE - SORRY!
We are looking at other methods by which we could engage our youth. Two, direct method options are being presented for your consideration. You can say that you like one, both, neither or suggest other options – we really appreciate your feedback!

Influencer Group would be project-based (as needed) with connections at various times throughout the year to get feedback, hear what is a focus / concern for young people. Designed to be an informal but regular connection opportunity between Administration and youth. This group would be created by young people from a fair representation of youth from Devon.  

Main purpose, engagement, volunteerism, leadership opportunities, ambassadorship / championing, support and identify activities / information etc. that affect youth. No formal connection to Council but would be supported to present ideas if required. Regular check-ins would be coordinated by FCSS but youth can request meetings at any time. Project specific with a defined start and finish, less formal structure. Young people could attend the feedback sessions or work on specific projects only - no long term commitment. 

A Youth Council would meet on a monthly basis and would be made up of 5-10 young people from a fair representation of youth from Devon. They would serve for a minimum of one year and act as an advisory and / or advocacy body to Council. Designed to be a formal connection between Council and youth.

Main purpose: to identify priorities for youth centred activity, craft policies that support these priorities, and contribute to the implementation of these policies through public services and advocacy, receive direction from Council where youth input is required, opportunity to understand the purpose of local governance model. May also plan and host events, attend conferences and other associated meetings. The full scope of the Youth Council would be determined by the group collectively. Formally connected to Council, with a full board and a serving Council member allocated to the meetings. Youth would be responsible for positions such as Chair, secretary etc. Ongoing, formal structure.
 
Both versions are intended to give young people a voice, provide a youth lens through dialogue, and enable them to make their views heard. Both could offer training opportunities. Ages 13-19. We would reach out to existing groups to encourage participation, as well as open up town-wide to reach young people who live here but don't attend school in Devon. If there is enough interest in both versions, this can also be looked into. 

Based on the descriptions, would you be interested in participating in:

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* 11. If neither, please can you say why

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* 12. Only if you are interested in being part of either option and want to be contacted, please add your email here. You can also leave any comments or questions here too...

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