The Palo Alto Youth Collaborative will hold Palo Alto’s second youth forum this year from 2 to 5 p.m. on Feb. 27, at Mitchell Park Community Center.
According to Palo Alto Youth Community (PAYC) member Christine Chang, the forum is a chance for students to discuss issues and concerns about their community with adult leaders such as City Council members, school council members and local business owners.
Chang said the council’s last forum was somewhat of an open discussion.
“There were only adult facilitators, and students were able to speak freely and candidly without feeling the pressure of adults listening,” Chang said.
PAYC members were happy about the outcome of the last forum.
“The last forum was a success,” Chang said. “There are about a hundred students present, which is a great turnout.”
Topics discussed included school, local businesses, and community events. Students brought up many issues that they regularly face, such as the lack of cheaper student-friendly cafes and restaurants or a movie theater in Palo Alto.
PAYC member Daniel Jones described the plan for the series of forums.
“The first one was about identifying areas of focus and a more open discussion between students about things to do to improve the community,” Jones said.
“The next one will be more of a back and forth discussion between kids and adults. The third should be more about concrete ideas; getting feedback from the adults and making plans.”
There will be a raffle at the end of the forum. Items raffled will include Jamba Juice, Baja Fresh, Corsage and Frozen Yogurt gift cards.
Jones advises students to come and participate.
“The more people we have the stronger voice and the more relevant and effecting changes we can make to improve our community,” Jones said.