Purpose
Youth leaders bring a unique and invaluable perspective to the table. They are in touch with the evolving needs, concerns, and aspirations of their peers, helping law enforcement better understand and adapt to changing dynamics in the community.
By actively involving youth leaders in shaping policing practices and interactions, we not only empower them to become responsible citizens, but also foster a more profound sense of trust, accountability, and unity between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Empowering youth leaders to engage with policing not only benefits our present, but also secures a brighter future. Involving youth leaders in community-police interactions is an investment in bridging the generation gap.
Objectives
With the success of the Police Chief's Community Advisory Board (CAB), a similar working group is to be established to better understand the needs of Elk Grove’s youth. Further, this Department strives to engage in an authentic exchange of ideas and in the development of working relationships with our city's future leaders.
The Chief's Community Youth Advisory Board shall do the following:
- Connect young leaders with members of the Elk Grove Police Department, up to and including, the Chief of Police
- Participate in discussions to learn of shared experiences while also respecting the lived experience of others
- Collaborate on long term goals for our community
- Demonstrate passion for civic engagement and playing a role in youth advocacy
- Be open minded and willing to collaborate with peers and the police
- Demonstrate leadership at school and within their community
- Attend all scheduled meetings
- Be active listeners while also challenging one another for innovative and critical thinking
- Communicate & collaborate with fellow Board members, Elk Grove Police Department and the community at large
- Plan and participate in community service activities which benefit the community of Elk Grove
- Study problems, activities and concerns of youth especially as they relate to municipal programs or projects within the City of Elk Grove
Selection Process
The Elk Grove Police Department and selected members of the CAB will review all applications. The EGPD does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or disabilities. All applications are kept confidential. The Board will be made up of 10 individuals. The Police Chief can make additional appointments at his discretion. Applicants will be notified via email and US mail regarding their selection. Youth Board members serve a maximum term of 2 years. The selection process is open and ongoing year-round.
Eligibility
To be considered for Chief’s Community Youth Advisory Board, students must meet the following criteria:
- High school students (9th through 12th grade)
- Attend a high school, or home school in the city of Elk Grove or live within the city limits of Elk Grove
- Have a minimum 2.0 GPA
- Be drug, alcohol, and tobacco free
Application Process
To apply:
- Obtain a letter of recommendation from a teacher, community leader, employer or non-family member. Recommendations should provide comment on the youth’s leadership abilities, communication skills and/or peer relationships.
- Write an essay or complete a video answering the following:
- What do you think is the most pressing issue facing youth and their relationship with the police?
- How will your participation in the Chief's Community Youth Advisory Board further the issue?
- Submit completed application, parental approval, letters of recommendation, and essay or video to EGPD via the application form below, mail or email. Applications may also be dropped off at the Elk Grove Police Department during regular business hours (Monday through Friday 8am – 5pm).