Voices of Youth Advisory Council
As a youth-led organization, the Voices of Youth Advisory Council (VOYAC) fulfills an important role at YouthLink by influencing and advising on the four P’s: policy, procedures, programs, and partnerships.
VOYAC helps ensure that all voices of young people served by YouthLink – of which a disproportionate number are Black and Brown youth & 2nd sometimes 3rd generation service clients – can inform and influence governance, leadership, staff, stakeholders, and funders. It also provides a respected platform for our organized youth leaders to participate in policymaking and strategic planning.
COUNCIL Members
Meet VOYAC
Joseph (Brother Ra) Cole
Chair
Facilitates council meetings, supports council structure and accountability, helps prepare agendas, and represents VOYAC externally.
Malik (Dez) Thomas
Advocacy Advisor
Supports council members, shares leadership responsibilities, and serves as Chair when needed.
Manny Bekoe
Secretary
Maintains meeting records, supports scheduling, and assists with reports.
J’mya Scott
Advocacy Advisor
Engages young people, gathers feedback, and coordinates advocacy and outreach.
Starr Pate
Communications Advisor
Supports public communications and social media in coordination with YouthLink staff.
Khi Doume
Events Coordinator
Identifies and coordinates internal and community engagement opportunities.
Clyde Quarles
Alumni Advisor
Past Chair who provides strategic advice, leadership, and mentorship to the youth council based on prior VOYAC experience and institutional knowledge.
Follow VOYAC on Social Media
The 4 P’s
VOYAC advises and informs on these key focus areas.
Policy
Procedures
Programs
Partnerships
VOYAC’s influences and advises on internal policy decisions at YouthLink. They also engage and educate on the legislative process. Their goal is to affect policy in both YouthLink and the greater community.
Above: VOYAC members attend Homeless Day on the Hill at the State Capitol
VOYAC influences and advises on internal procedures at YouthLink. They help determine how processes are run and how services are delivered within the organization.
Above: VOYAC meets with a city council member
VOYAC helps determine what programs are offered and how they are implemented. VOYAC ensures that programs are culturally-responsive and providing transformative experiences and opportunities for young people.
Above: VOYAC held a meet & greet event to introduce council members to the YouthLink community and solicit youth feedback.
VOYAC helps build and develop a network of partnerships that support and nourish the growth of YouthLink and its clients. Partnerships help provide a wide range of skill development and educational enlightenment for youth coming to YouthLink.
Above: VOYAC members met with foundation staff during a funder’s onsite meeting