VOiCEup Berks

Please wait...

YAB

Youth Advisory Board (YAB)

The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a dynamic leadership team of 35 high school students representing 15 school districts across Berks County. A collaboration between Berks County Community Foundation and Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) of Reading, YAB empowers youth to take an active role in community service and philanthropy.

What We Do

YAB members meet regularly to design and lead impactful service projects throughout the school year. They also steward the Youth in Philanthropy Fund through Berks County Community Foundation, granting up to $15,000 annually to local nonprofits in issue areas chosen by student members. By leading projects and funding initiatives, YAB ensures that youth voices are heard and represented in shaping meaningful community change.

Why Join YAB?

As part of YAB, students:
✅ Collaborate with a diverse group of peers from across Berks County
✅ Share their voice and passion to drive change in their communities
✅ Brainstorm and implement service projects
✅ Recruit volunteers and build relationships with local organizations
✅ Receive team-building and leadership training
✅ Participate in hands-on service experiences through YVC
✅ Develop a capstone service project based on their interests

With the guidance of our trained staff, YAB members gain valuable leadership skills, make a lasting impact, and help create a stronger, more connected community.

Interested in making a difference? Join us and be a voice for change!

The application for the 2025-2026 Youth Advisory Board will open May 1 and run through May 24. Interviews will occur in June and YAB members chosen by July 1. All high-school students from Berks County are encouraged to apply here in May.

For further information please contact info@voiceupberks.org.

More information on student-chosen issue areas and the capstone service project developed by YAB for the

2019-2020 school year is available here (issue: protecting the environment).
2020-2021 school year is available here (issue: diversity, equity and inclusion).
2021-2022 school year (issue: youth mental health).
2022-2023 school year is available here (issue: youth experiencing homelessness).
2023-2024 school year (issue: food insecurity)
2024-2025 school year BEING DEVELOPED (issue: environmental sustainabiliy/education)