The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced in a news release, that the organization is actively seeking applications from students in grades eight through 11 for its upcoming Youth Preparedness Council, offering an opportunity for young leaders to contribute positively to their communities.

The Youth Preparedness Council unites teenagers nationwide who share an interest in community preparedness and aspire to cultivate leadership skills and networks essential for future success. Council members, serving a one-year term starting in July 2024, collaborate on local and national projects during their tenure to contribute to building a more resilient nation.

Previous council members have championed initiatives such as creating resource collections to guide young people experiencing homelessness during disasters, designing graphic novels to educate children about the effects of a changing climate, establishing frameworks for support groups aiding young people who have faced disasters, and crafting books to help young individuals understand decision-making during emergencies.

"The Youth Preparedness Council is a unique opportunity for teens across America to get a sense of what it’s like to be an emergency manager. It also lets us take a glimpse into the future of our profession — and let me say, the future is bright," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. "These young leaders give me so much hope that we’ll be able to create a more prepared, resilient America that the next generation needs and deserves. I’m looking forward to watching this new council come together and seeing what they’re able to accomplish."

Council members are expected to attend the July 2025 Council Summit, providing them with a platform to engage with top leaders within FEMA, the federal government and national non-profit organizations. Additionally, each year, council teams participate in sessions, workshops and networking events, culminating in the presentation of their project proposals to a panel of emergency management experts during a virtual event.

Teens interested in joining the council must submit a completed application form and provide two letters of recommendation. Selection is based on demonstrated dedication to public service, impactful community efforts, and the potential to emerge as national leaders in emergency preparedness. The deadline for submitting applications and supporting materials is Mar. 4, with the announcement of new council members scheduled for June 2024.

For further details about the council and access to application materials, please visit the Youth Preparedness Council page on FEMA.gov.