Wilmington City Council to Host Press Conference Announcing Applications for the 2026 Wilmington Youth Advisory Council
January 8, 2026
City Council invites Wilmington students in grades 8–12 to apply for a new youth-led advisory body shaping the city’s future
Wilmington, DE — Wilmington City Council will host a press conference on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, to officially announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Wilmington Youth Advisory Council (WYAC), a powerful new initiative designed to elevate youth voice, leadership, and civic engagement across the City of Wilmington.
Established through Ordinance 25-062 [wilmingtoncitycouncil.us17.list-manage.com], which passed as amended on November 6, 2025, the Wilmington Youth Advisory Council reflects City Council’s renewed and intentional commitment to centering young people in local decision-making and long-term planning. The ordinance repealed the former, defunct Wilmington Advisory Commission on Youth and Their Families and formally created a youth-led advisory body under the direct auspices of City Council.
“This council is about more than leadership, it’s about listening,” said At-Large Council Member and Education, Youth & Family Services Committee Chair Latisha Bracy. “Our young people live the realities of our city every day. Their lived experiences, ideas, and creativity are essential to shaping policies that truly meet the needs of Wilmington’s youth today and for generations to come.”
About the Wilmington Youth Advisory Council
The Wilmington Youth Advisory Council will consist of 20 student members, all City of Wilmington residents in grades 8 through 12, with no more than five seniors serving at one time. Members will serve one-year terms, with the opportunity to reapply for up to three consecutive years.
The Youth Advisory Council’s primary charge is the development of a comprehensive Youth Master Plan, which will serve as a forward-looking roadmap that will:
- Assess the current resources, gaps, and needs of Wilmington’s youth
- Propose strategies to advance youth safety, well-being, and healthy development
- Foster collaboration among community organizations, schools, government, and families
- Establish clear methods for accountability, evaluation, and long-term sustainability
Council members will also participate in ongoing reviews of the Youth Master Plan every three years and collaborate with the City’s Office of Educational Advocacy to ensure alignment with educational and youth-focused initiatives.
In recognition of the value of youth leadership and time, members will receive $50 per meeting, with compensation capped at $600 per calendar year.
Meeting Location & Schedule
All Wilmington Youth Advisory Council meetings will be held in the City Council Chambers, located on the first floor of the Louis L. Redding City County Building, and will take place on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m.
2026 Meeting Dates:
February 3, February 17, March 17, April 21, May 19, June 16
*Meeting notice as of 1/7/2026 and is subject to change.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2026 Wilmington Youth Advisory Council will be made available following the January 12 press conference. Students who are passionate about leadership, community service, advocacy, and shaping Wilmington’s future are strongly encouraged to apply by Monday, January 19, 2026, at the link here [wilmingtoncitycouncil.us17.list-manage.com].
Additional details regarding eligibility, application deadlines, and submission instructions will be shared during the press conference and published on Wilmington City Council’s official platforms.
A Call to Wilmington’s Youth
The creation of the Wilmington Youth Advisory Council marks a new chapter in civic engagement, one where young people are not only heard, but empowered to lead.
“Wilmington’s future is sitting in our classrooms, neighborhoods, and community centers right now,” 1st District Council Member Coby J. Owens added. “This council ensures that our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but partners in shaping today.”
For more information, please contact the office of Wilmington City Council.