Published on August 12, 2026
What if you could help shape the future of your community, meet local leaders, travel to the Arizona State Capitol and gain experiences that will stay with you long after graduating high school? That’s exactly what the Maricopa Youth Council offers.
The Youth Council gives students an opportunity to get involved, make their voices heard and develop real-world leadership skills while working alongside other young people who want to make a difference in their community.
“Youth Council has been one of the most exceptionally fun and rewarding programs I’ve had the pleasure to be in. From working behind the scenes to making best friends, I cannot recommend the program enough,” said Kimmy Hoang, current Youth Council Chair.
Throughout the year, Youth Council members take part in discussions, activities and community projects that provide a firsthand look at how local government works. Members have the opportunity to interact with City officials, learn about the issues affecting Maricopa and explore ways young people can play an active role in their community.
And it’s not all meetings and government lessons.
Youth Council members take part in memorable experiences and educational trips designed to bring leadership and civic engagement to life. One of the highlights is a trip to the Arizona State Capitol, where members can tour the historic building, meet with state legislators and learn how decisions are made at the state level. During a recent visit, Maricopa’s Youth Council members even participated in a mock legislative session on the floor of the Arizona House of Representatives, giving them the chance to experience what it’s like to debate and vote on legislation.
“My favorite experience from being in Youth Council has been the opportunity to visit the State Capitol and meet with state-level officials. Here, I was able to learn more about how bills and laws are passed at the state level and the overall legislative process. Through this experience and Youth Council as a whole, I’ve learned to participate and engage more civically, which is a crucial part of being a citizen,” said Bendan Small, current Youth Council Secretary.
The opportunities available through the Maricopa Youth Council can also open doors to leadership at the state level. This year, four members of the Maricopa Youth Council were selected to serve on Governor Katie Hobbs’ Governor’s Youth Commission including Analiese Alexander who currently serves as the Vice President. The commission gives young leaders an opportunity to promote community service, explore important issues facing Arizona and encourage civic participation demonstrating just how far the leadership skills and experiences gained through Youth Council can take Maricopa’s young leaders.
Whether they are learning about city government, participating in community activities, meeting elected officials or representing Maricopa on educational trips, members gain a better understanding of how their community works, and how they can help make it even better.
Applicants must be residents of the City of Maricopa or surrounding areas and currently between the ages of 13 and 18 (still in high school). To gain a full understanding of expectations, candidates are encouraged to review the Youth Council By-Laws before applying.
If you’re ready to make a difference and represent the youth of Maricopa, we invite you attend the upcoming Neon Glow Orientation Night on Wednesday, August 26 and to complete the application(PDF, 1MB) for membership today. Take the next step to be part of something bigger and help shape the future of our community!