Applications are open for the coming Goodyear Youth Commission, offering local high school students the opportunity to develop leadership skills, participate in civic service and help shape youth-focused initiatives in the city.

The commission includes students from public, charter and home schools across Goodyear. Members meet monthly to discuss youth-related issues, volunteer at community events and participate in regional leadership conferences.

“We are a group of like-minded high school students with a drive to take part in local government and lead our community into an even better future,” said Wyatt Arnsbarger, a Canyon View High School sophomore and current Youth Commissioner.

This year, the group helped beautify the Estrella Vista neighborhood by painting a stretch of exterior wall in partnership with residents.

Commissioners also joined youth leaders from six neighboring cities to host the West Valley Youth Council Summit, which included workshops on drug prevention, job-seeking skills and public speaking.

“Our projects have a lasting impact on our community,” Arnsbarger said. “I love being connected with a group of friends who are making a difference through civic engagement.”

Applications are available online through April 30. All application materials, including two character references, must be submitted by May 1. Qualified applicants will be invited to interview with a subcommittee of the Goodyear City Council.

“I know that sounds intimidating, but don’t worry — it’s not bad,” Arnsbarger said. “The councilmembers just want the opportunity to get to know you a bit more.”

To be eligible, students must live in Goodyear or attend a school in the city and be entering grades 9 through 12 in the fall. Current eighth graders may also apply over the summer before starting high school.

Ameera Singh, a youth commissioner, was named the city’s 2024 Youth Citizen of the Year for her leadership and dedication to service. Singh has served as chair of the Youth Commission for four years and organized the West Valley Youth Council Summit.

“I’ve reached the pinnacle of the mountain I’m on now,” Singh said during her acceptance speech. “But as I look down, there are so many people climbing up. Who are those people you’re helping up the mountain?”

In addition to her work with the commission, Singh volunteered at city events, helped with neighborhood cleanups and maintained high academic performance while participating in Future Farmers of America and Arizona Mock Trial. Singh said these extracurricular activities and leadership experiences will guide her way towards a successful future.

Vice Mayor Wally Campbell encouraged students to take initiative and participate in local leadership opportunities.

“Take the initiative to engage with your community and contribute your ideas and vision for what you want to see happen,” Campbell said. “Never underestimate the power of even the smallest effort.”

Councilmember Trey Terry, a Goodyear High School graduate, also encouraged students to get involved.

“Your teen years are some of the most important in shaping who you’ll become,” Terry said. “The experiences you have now will stay with you forever.”

The Youth Commission meets from 6 to 8 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Goodyear City Hall. Members assist with youth outreach efforts and community service projects throughout the year.

Visit goodyearaz.gov for more information and to apply.