Danya Herman writes: “Margaret Mead said, ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.’
“As a sophomore at Greens Farms Academy who had recently moved from New York City to Westport, I never imaged I could have a voice in the governing of our town. That is, until I heard about the Westport Youth Commission.
“After attending my first general meeting and then, through getting involved in projects and sharing my voice, moving up the ranks to now be on the executive committee my junior year, I’ve seen how this quote defines the work we do.
“We are not just a group of students and adults; we are a rising tide, shaping the shores of our community bit by bit with every idea, conversation, and event.
“Whether through Dodge-A-Cop, where laughter and friendly competition fill the Staples fieldhouse and relationships are built one dodgeball throw at a time, or the iMentor Internet Safety Program, where we become guiding stars for elementary and middle school students navigating the vast digital and social sky, our work proves that youth are not just the future; we are the present.
Police and Staples students, before a Dodge-a-Cop dodgeball event.
“I love being part of the Westport Youth Commission because together, we are not just waiting for a better town. We are helping create it.”
Westport Youth Commission applications for the 2025-26 school year are available now. They’re looking for 9th-12th graders interested in discussing youth issues each month, while making a difference in the community.
The WYC includes 15 high school students and 15 adults), all recommended by the Board Development Committee and appointed by the First Selectwoman.
The application deadline is May 2. Click here for an application form, and more information.
A student discount program is another Youth Commission initiative.
