Dear Prospective Youth Council Member:

The Bucks County (PA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is proud to sponsor the Bucks County Links Youth Council. First Established in 2008, the purpose of the Bucks County Youth Council is to develop young leaders who will foster progress in and enrich the culture and achievements of the black community. The Youth Council's vision is to equip youth with critical life and leadership skills, empowering them to be productive, engaged change agents in their communities. It targets youth in grades 8 through 12 with a focus on the following Pillars:

The six pillars are reinforced through a three-pronged method of (a) guidance and instruction: (b) mentoring and team building, and (c) proactive and hands-on experience.
Pillar One - Physical & Mental Health / Well Being

• Empower teens with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to cultivate lifelong health habits
• Develop resilience and mental well-being through engaging workshops

Pillar Two - Academic Excellence: 

• Workshops on college selection, financial aid, course management, and health.
• Knowledge and awareness of HBCUs
• Seminars on integration into college life and post-graduation planning. 
• Post Graduation preparation with both Oral and Written Communication Skills

Pillar Three- Ethics:

• Discussions on integrity and ethical conduct
• Understand the importance of ethics in leadership and community service 

Pillar Four - Enterprise and Career:

• Exposure to careers in STEAM
• Guidance on job searches, resume writing, and interviewing.
• Career alignment workshops to match talents and skills with professional paths. 

Pillar Five - Financial Responsibility:   

• Financial literacy sessions covering budgeting, managing loans, and understanding investments  
• Practical advice on renting, insurance, and responsible credit use.

Pillar Six - Community Service & Public Advocacy 

• Community service projects designed and led by Youth Council members.
• Collaboration with public service leaders to create impactful community initiatives.
• Work together to advocate for causes that support the disenfranchised
  

These six pillars are reinforced through Leadership Exercises, including workshops; mentoring and team building; and actual hands-on experiences. Leadership Exercises are typically held on a monthly basis from October through May. 

In addition, Youth Council members have the opportunity to participate in a special leadership and day trip events during the summer months. Past programming has included “Future Faces of Wall Street” a program held in New York, NY and sponsored by Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and the New York Stock Exchange, and “Future Faces of Politics”, a program sponsored by Microsoft Corporation in Washington, D.C.

Finally, Youth Council members help design, execute and lead our signature program: Bucks County Chapter Links Teen Leadership Institute.

If you have any questions about the Bucks County Links Youth Council, please feel free to contact Annette Kelton at bcpayouthcouncil@gmail.com