Government for Tomorrow is a program created by Charlevoix High School student Liam Dreyer after being appointed as the first student member of the City of Charlevoix’s Downtown Development Authority Board in hopes to inspire and involve other students in local government. The program is designed to help local government appoint area students asnon-voting members to boards or subcommittees to provide a new perspective and represent a demographic typically underrepresented in local government.
Non-voting student members would be able to voice their opinions and bring a different perspective on agenda items and a unique approach to problems within the community without the voting responsibility. It is also a way to bridge the age gap between those making community decisions and the local youth, making for a more well-rounded board. Another benefit is the student would act as a representative to their peers allowing for further collaboration between local government and the school system.
Other communities considering the addition of student board members and to take advantage of the program include the City of Boyne City and the City of East Jordan. This program is easily adaptable to different boards and subcommittees. Check out the video of Liam calling students to join the program and get involved.
Contact Liam Dreyer for additional information or questions at govfortomorrow@gmail.com or 231-675-9708.
