As a graduating senior and dedicated member of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC), Noah has spent the past few years making a meaningful impact on his community. YAC, a program of the Otsego Community Foundation, brings together student representatives from local high schools to assess youth needs, review grant applications, and recommend funding for programs that support positive youth development across Otsego County. With a mission to provide youth with a voice and empower the community through positive impact and growth—one grant at a time—YAC cultivates the next generation of philanthropists and leaders.
Before heading off to the University of Michigan this fall, Noah took time to reflect on his YAC experience.
What is your best memory of your time working with YAC?
“The trip to see our funded projects stands out the most to me. It was incredible to see the impact we had on our community, and I felt like what we did was meaningful.”
What are your plans for next year?
“I plan on attending U of M in the fall and trying to pursue a degree in engineering. Becoming an engineer and going to a great college have always been goals of mine, and I look forward to everything that is to come.”
What would you tell someone who is thinking about joining YAC?
“I would tell them to give YAC a try. It is a place where you feel welcome by everyone in the room and where your opinion matters. It is also a place where I feel the youth of the community can make a genuine difference.”