YOUTH
EMPOWERMENT
COUNCIL.
A student-led civic leadership body built on one belief: young people don't have to wait to make a difference. The time is now — and the vote is their voice.
Who We Are
LEAD TODAY.
SHAPE TOMORROW.
The Youth Empowerment Council is Camp Joven's student-led civic leadership body. Council members take ownership of their community, drive initiatives, and represent their peers — developing the real-world skills that prepare them to be the next generation of change-makers in St. Louis and beyond.
At the heart of the council is a deep commitment to voter education. We believe that an informed, registered, and engaged young voter is one of the most powerful forces for change in any community. Every council member leaves with the knowledge, confidence, and registration to make their voice heard at the ballot box.
Get InvolvedThe Core of Our Mission
YOUR VOTE IS
YOUR POWER.
Voter education is the cornerstone of everything the Youth Empowerment Council does. We walk every eligible member through registration, teach them how local elections shape their daily lives, and make sure they show up — informed and ready.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Every council member learns their voting rights, eligibility requirements, and how to register in Missouri — before they turn 18.
UNDERSTAND THE ISSUES
We break down local ballot measures, school board elections, and city council races so youth can vote on what actually affects their lives.
SHOW UP & SPEAK OUT
From mock elections to real polling places, council members practice civic participation and bring their peers along with them.
Council Activities
WHAT WE DO
VOTER EDUCATION & CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Council members learn the power of the ballot. We cover voter registration, how local government works, and why youth voices matter at every level — from the school board to city hall.
PUBLIC SPEAKING & ADVOCACY
From council chambers to community forums, members develop the confidence to speak up, make their case, and advocate for the issues that matter most to St. Louis youth.
PEER MENTORSHIP & LEADERSHIP
Older council members mentor younger ones, building a culture of accountability, support, and shared growth. Leadership is practiced every day — not just on stage.
CIVIC EDUCATION & POLICY LITERACY
Members study local policy, attend city council meetings, and learn how decisions get made — so they can be part of making better ones.
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS
The council organizes and leads youth-driven service initiatives across St. Louis — from neighborhood clean-ups to food drives and awareness campaigns.
LEADERSHIP RETREATS & TEAM BUILDING
Annual retreats and workshops push members to grow together, challenge assumptions, and return to their communities as stronger, more connected leaders.
READY TO LEAD?
The Youth Empowerment Council is open to St. Louis youth ages 14–18. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — don't wait.