The Youth of Payson

The youth is our community's future. Keeping them engaged in our town and activities to inspire the youth is an important thing to me. 

Promoting youth involvement in the community and providing engaging events and classes is a great way for a city council to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among young residents.

Here are some ideas to achieve this goal:

1. Youth City Council:

   Continue the growth and work of Payson’s City Council that allows young people to voice their concerns, ideas, and suggestions on local issues. Encourage them to actively participate in decision-making processes related to policies, programs, and events affecting youth.

2. Youth-Led Events:

   Organize events that are entirely planned, organized, and executed by young people. This could include concerts, art exhibitions, talent shows, and sports tournaments. Provide support and resources to help them realize their ideas.

3. Youth Empowerment Workshops:

   Offer workshops focused on building skills like leadership, communication, project management, and entrepreneurship. Invite successful youth role models to share their experiences and insights.

4. Community Service Projects:

   Encourage and facilitate community service projects led by youth, such as neighborhood cleanups, food drives, and volunteering at local shelters. Provide platforms for them to make a positive impact on their community.

5. Civic Education Programs:

   Implement educational programs that teach young people about local government, civic responsibilities, and the importance of active citizenship. Offer workshops on how to engage with public policy, advocate for change, and understand the democratic process.

6. Recreational Sports Leagues:

   Expand recreational sports leagues for youth to participate in and enjoy as needed. This promotes physical activity, teamwork, and a sense of community. Provide affordable or free access to sports facilities.

7. Arts and Cultural Classes:

   Offer classes in various art forms, music, dance, theater, and cultural activities. Collaborate with local artists and cultural organizations to provide a diverse range of creative opportunities for young individuals.

8. Tech and Innovation Programs:

   Arrange workshops and classes related to technology, coding, robotics, and innovation. Encourage participation in hackathons or tech-based challenges to stimulate creativity and problem-solving skills.

9. Mentorship Programs:

   Establish mentorship programs that connect young people with experienced professionals in various fields. Encourage these mentors to guide, motivate, and provide career insights to the youth.

10. Outdoor Adventure Activities:

    Organize outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or nature tours to promote a connection with the environment and encourage a healthy, active lifestyle among youth. Payson is the gateway to one of the greatest canyons in Utah and getting the youth knowing about this hidden treasure is a great way for involvement.

11. Interactive Forums and Debates:

    Host forums and debates on current issues, allowing youth to express their opinions, engage in constructive dialogue, and develop critical thinking skills.

12. Youth-Friendly Online Platform:

    Create a dedicated online platform where young people can share ideas, collaborate on projects, and stay informed about local events and opportunities.

13. Annual Youth Summit:

    Organize an annual youth summit or conference that brings together young people, community leaders, and experts to discuss pressing issues, exchange ideas, and propose solutions for the city.

14. Scholarship and Educational Support:

    Establish scholarship programs, tutoring centers, or educational grants to support academic excellence and encourage youth to excel in their studies.

15. Partnerships with Schools and Colleges:

    Collaborate with educational institutions to integrate youth engagement initiatives within the school curriculum, ensuring a seamless transition from academic settings to community involvement. Payson is receiving a great opportunity to welcome MTECH and UVU into our community. Both schools offer classes for high school students, to get more attention and more involvement for this would be a great benefit to our youth.

By implementing these ideas, the city can create a nurturing environment that empowers youth, fosters their growth, and enhances their sense of belonging and civic responsibility within the community.