Shelby County's Youth Council is making strides in advocating for the needs of young people, as highlighted during a recent committee meeting on July 23, 2025. The council, represented by youth leaders and supported by adult advisors, presented a comprehensive report on their activities over the past year, including insights from their Youth Voice Summit, which gathered over 250 participants.

The summit focused on critical issues identified by youth, such as mental health, public safety, education, and the need for more youth programs. Recommendations from the summit included the establishment of "reset rooms" in schools to support mental health, conflict resolution programs to enhance public safety, and improved access to educational resources. The council emphasized the importance of youth engagement and proposed initiatives like after-school programs and youth advisory boards to foster greater involvement.

Reggie Eskridge, the youth engagement coordinator, urged the Board of Commissioners for continued support and collaboration to implement these recommendations. He highlighted the need for additional funding to support a new youth advisor position, following recent staffing changes that left a gap in leadership.

Commissioners expressed their appreciation for the youth's efforts and acknowledged the importance of addressing mental health concerns, particularly in light of alarming statistics regarding youth suicide rates in the county. They encouraged the council to provide a consolidated list of their requests for consideration in future budget discussions.

The meeting underscored the council's commitment to empowering youth voices and fostering a collaborative relationship with local government. As they prepare for the upcoming school year, the Shelby County Youth Council aims to deepen their engagement with peers and advocate for meaningful changes that will positively impact the community.