Collingwood teens can spend a month in the mayor's shoes thanks to a new initiative from the town.
Aimed at connecting youth with local government, the Mayor for a Month contest allows a student from Grade 7 to 12 to spend a month working with the mayor and town officials and learning about town hall.
The "youth mayor" will get a tour of town facilities, they'll attend a council meeting, and "get a behind-the-scenes look" at how the town operates, according to a news release from the Town of Collingwood.
Additionally, the candidate will be asked to provide their own perspectives on town programs and services.
“We hope this unique experience will connect our youth directly with the Town of Collingwood so they can learn about municipal government and further engage youth in our community,” said Mayor Yvonne Hamlin in a news release.
The program includes:
- Working with the mayor and other town officials
- Connecting with the community and local government
- Learning about career opportunities in local government
- A professional photo with the Junior Chain of Office
- Earning volunteer hours
- A $250 honorarium
To apply, youth are asked to write a short essay, record a video essay, or even create an artistic rendering as to why they would want to be mayor for the month.
Submissions are open from April 17 to May 3 with the program running from mid-May to mid-June. Submissions may be made directly to the mayor's office using the online submission form or through your school. Another intake will occur this fall.
