The Harry Barovsky Memorial Youth Commission was established recently to take a stand and make sure that youth has a voice in the Malibu community.
This group of 15 young commissioners met in their official capacity for the first time on Sept. 21 at the Bluff’s Community Center.
“I joined community service for my school so I could represent my friends, their ideas and what they want,” said Mose Wintner, 12, who attends middle school at Malibu High.
Before the meeting, the group members were interviewed and selected by the City Council based on their leadership skills.
“These 15 commissioners were selected after an all-out recruitment was conducted between March and June,” said Marilyn Stern, recreation supervisor, who will act as a liaison for the group.
“We chose two representatives from each grades 6 through 12, having three representatives for the 12th graders,” said Stern.
The young commissioners were selected for their enthusiasm, commitment and their ability to demonstrate leadership, she said.
The commission will aid the city by acting in an advisory capacity to the City Council and staff and will act as a liaison for the Parks and Recreation Dept.
“Their goal is to increase opportunities for youth in the area,” said Stern.
To achieve that goal, the Youth Commission will work on the implementation of youth programs and activities, develop a common vision and youth master plan, help to engage youth in meaningful activities and create a positive environment for youth participation, said Stern.
Wintner was well-prepared for the task at hand since he is on the student council at Malibu High this year and he was captain of his baseball team last year. The young commissioner also received references from his friends for his resume.
“I think baseball and sports are fine, but a teen center where kids could go would be good,” said Wintner. “Like the Boys and Girls Club but bigger, a place where kids can go so they can stay out of trouble.”
After selection, the group had a two-day orientation and training at Camp Shalom.
“This helped them bond and get some leadership training,” said Stern.
“The idea of the commission is to get ideas from the youth in the community to give back to City Council,” said Paul Adams, Parks and Recreation Dept. director.
The commissioners’ appointment is for two years, except for older members who will graduate at the end of the school year.
One of the first orders of business was to select a chair and vice-chair. The group elected Alexis Bolter as chair and Caitlin Harris as vice-chair.
Bolter said she is dedicated and excited to be on the commission.
“I really like to work with people and make things happen,” said Harris.