Empowering Students to Change Their Communities Through Philanthropy

Nearly 120 students from 12 high schools in Eastern Jackson County are making a difference in the community through the Youth Advisory Council.

Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is represented by the following area high schools and welcomes participation from other metro school districts: Blue Springs, Blue Springs South, Fort Osage, Grain Valley, Lee’s Summit, Lee’s Summit North, Lee’s Summit West, Raytown, Raytown South, Truman, Van Horn and William Chrisman.

Perks of Being a YAC Member

1. Review Grant Proposals: YAC members provide valuable insight to the Truman Heartland grants committee. Each year, a team of YAC students review grant proposals from local youth-serving nonprofits and make on-site visits.
2. Practice Philanthropy: In addition to making recommendations to the Truman Heartland grants committee, YAC awards grants to local nonprofits from their own endowment fund.
3. Plan and Organize a Fundraiser: Each year, YAC plans and organizes a fundraiser for their endowment fund, which helps support grants given to projects that help area youth. The 2020 fundraiser, Freezin' for a Reason, was held on Saturday, January 25th at Summit Ice in Lee's Summit. 
4. Community Service: Throughout the year, YAC members have opportunities to volunteer with local nonprofits. In addition to serving their communities, students gain hands-on experience by working with potential and/or current grant recipients and become inspired to pursue their own philanthropic goals.
5. Leadership Opportunities: In addition to being a part of the council itself, YAC members can become a part of the leadership team. Leadership team members organize team meetings, service opportunities and set the direction of key YAC initiatives, giving each student excellent leadership experience.
6. Scholarships: Each year, graduating YAC seniors are eligible for two scholarship awards, the Henri E. Goettel Youth in Philanthropy Award and the Elizabeth Hill McClure Scholarship Award.

Interested in Joining YAC?

Recruitment meetings are held mid-year (usually, December and January) at each high school for those interested in becoming involved. The faculty and staff at participating high schools are very involved helping Truman Heartland determine YAC membership. Potential members are expected to demonstrate leadership potential and an interest in serving others’ needs. Students interested can contact current leadership members at any time.

How Can I Help Fund YAC?

2 Ways to Support YAC:

1. Give to the Foundation Fan Club to help support the expenses of the YAC program.
2. Support the Youth Advisory Council’s Annual Endowment Fundraiser. This fundraiser supports the YAC endowment fund, which helps fund projects aiding our area youth, such as providing meals in the summer for children who normally rely on school lunches to feed them.