The Jacksonville Youth Council convened for its first meeting of the school year, emphasizing its role as a vital platform for youth voices in the community. Held in the chambers typically used by the Jacksonville City Council, the meeting welcomed students from various local high schools, including Northside, Southwest, and Jacksonville, among others.
Council members expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming year, highlighting the availability of a youth center and supportive staff to facilitate new initiatives and ongoing programs. The council meets monthly, inviting all eligible high school students in Onslow County to participate.
A key feature of the meeting was the \"1 City, Our City, My City\" segment, which encourages members to recognize positive contributions within the community. Past recognitions included local sports teams, such as the Jacksonville High School football team and the girls' soccer team, both celebrated for their achievements.
Additionally, the council recapped its summer youth empowerment series, designed to engage students in meaningful discussions and activities. The meeting concluded with a pledge of allegiance and an invitation for attendees to share their thoughts and recognitions in future sessions, fostering a spirit of community involvement and appreciation.