The San Francisco Youth Commission, established in 1995 through a voter-approved amendment to the City Charter, serves as a vital platform for youth participation in public policy at the municipal level. Composed of 17 youth commissioners between the ages of 12 and 23, the commission advises the Board of Supervisors and the Mayor on policies and laws that impact young people in San Francisco.
In This Article
Key Points
- The San Francisco Youth Commission was created in 1995 through a voter-approved City Charter amendment
- It consists of 17 youth commissioners aged 12-23 who serve one-year terms
- The commission advises the Board of Supervisors and Mayor on youth-related policies and laws
Purpose and Duties
The primary purpose of the Youth Commission is to gather information relevant to advising the Board of Supervisors and Mayor on the effects of legislative policies, needs, assessments, priorities, programs, and budgets concerning San Francisco’s children and youth. The commission’s duties include:
- Identifying the concerns and needs of San Francisco’s youth through personal contact, public forums, and collaboration with community organizations
- Examining existing social, economic, educational, and recreational programs for youth and proposing plans to support or improve them
- Advising on available funding sources for youth programs and submitting recommendations on juvenile crime prevention, job opportunities, recreational activities, and youth participation in government
- Responding to requests for comment and recommendation on matters referred by City and County officials, departments, agencies, boards, commissions, and advisory committees
Membership and Appointment Process
The 17 Youth Commissioners are appointed through a process involving the Board of Supervisors and the Mayor. Each member of the Board of Supervisors appoints one commissioner, while the Mayor appoints six commissioners, including five from underrepresented communities to ensure diversity. Commissioners must be San Francisco residents between the ages of 12 and 23 and serve one-year terms.
Interested individuals can apply through the Youth Commission’s annual application process, which includes an interview. Final appointment decisions are made by the respective District Supervisors and the Mayor.
Committees and Initiatives
The Youth Commission operates through various committees focused on specific areas of youth policy and advocacy. These committees include:
- Civic Engagement and Education Committee
- Housing, Recreation, and Transit Committee
- Transformative Justice Committee
The commission also participates in initiatives such as the DreamSF Fellowship, which welcomes applications from individuals meeting minimum qualifications, regardless of immigration status. The fellowship is a program of the San Francisco Office of Civic Engagement & Immigrant Affairs (OCEIA).
Impact and Accomplishments
The San Francisco Youth Commission has made significant contributions to youth policy and civic engagement since its inception. Some notable accomplishments include:
- Developing and advocating for the successful passage of the Children and Youth Fund, which dedicates a portion of property tax revenue to youth services
- Collaborating with the Board of Supervisors to establish the Youth Empowerment Fund, providing grants for youth-led projects and initiatives
- Advocating for the expansion of the Free Muni for Youth program, ensuring free public transportation access for low-income youth
- Hosting annual Youth Advocacy Day events to engage young people in the legislative process and amplify their voices on key issues
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its successes, the Youth Commission faces challenges in ensuring sustained youth participation and representation. Factors such as competing time commitments, limited resources, and the transient nature of youth involvement can impact the commission’s effectiveness.
However, the commission also has opportunities to further enhance youth civic engagement and policy influence. By leveraging partnerships with community organizations, schools, and youth-serving agencies, the commission can expand its reach and impact. Embracing innovative strategies, such as digital engagement and youth-led participatory action research, can also help the commission adapt to evolving youth needs and preferences.
FAQ
How can I apply to serve on the San Francisco Youth Commission?
To apply for the Youth Commission, you can visit the commission’s website ( and complete the annual application when it becomes available. You must be a San Francisco resident between the ages of 12 and 23 to be eligible.
How long do Youth Commissioners serve?
Youth Commissioners serve one-year terms, typically beginning in August of each year.
What are the main responsibilities of the Youth Commission?
The Youth Commission is responsible for advising the Board of Supervisors and the Mayor on policies and laws related to young people in San Francisco. They also provide comment and recommendation on proposed laws that primarily affect youth before the Board takes final action.
How does the Youth Commission gather input from San Francisco’s youth?
The Youth Commission gathers input through various methods, including personal contact with young people, school officials, and community leaders; holding public forums; and collaborating with youth organizations and neighborhood planning efforts.
What are some notable accomplishments of the San Francisco Youth Commission?
Some notable accomplishments of the Youth Commission include advocating for the successful passage of the Children and Youth Fund, collaborating to establish the Youth Empowerment Fund, advocating for the expansion of the Free Muni for Youth program, and hosting annual Youth Advocacy Day events.
Conclusion
The San Francisco Youth Commission serves as a powerful example of youth participation in public policy at the municipal level. By providing a platform for young people to advise on issues that directly impact their lives, the commission helps ensure that youth voices are heard and considered in the decision-making process. As the commission continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of San Francisco’s youth, it remains a vital force for youth empowerment, civic engagement, and policy advocacy.
