October 14, 2021 3:50 a.m.

The Education Services Department at Douglas Education Service District has kicked off a new project, the Youth Design Institute.

A release said the leadership opportunity is intended for youth ages 14-21 to express their voices and create positive changes within the community. Youth will decide what’s important and mentors will provide skill-building and relational support. The project is made possible by a grant from the Oregon Youth Services Development Division and is operating with youth-serving agencies and organizations throughout the county.

The release said the first step in the process involves creating a Youth Advisory Crew. Adults interested in becoming allies and mentors are invited to a planning session on October 21st at 5:30 p.m. All youth are invited to a one-hour “hang out” information session on Saturday October 23rd at 10:00 a.m.

Sessions will be held virtually during scheduled meeting times. Access information will be provided upon registration. Additional team planning meetings will be scheduled in the future to help design the Youth Advisory Crew.

The release said participating youth have the opportunity to earn up to $50 for attending the information session. There will be opportunities to earn $200 for participating in the institute via a series of in-person or virtual planning sessions through the fall and winter.

For more information, or to sign up, go to: https://douglasesd.k12.or.us/youth-design-institute/