In a neighborhood known for its family centered community, a new generation of leaders is stepping up to make a difference. The Roscoe Village Junior Board, made up of 17 youth members ages 13 to 18 is dedicated to enhancing youth engagement and providing a voice for young people in the neighborhood. Local students from DePaul College Prep further these efforts by contributing innovative ideas and spirit to both projects and opportunities. With diverse backgrounds and schools, as well as a shared passion for their community, these teens are making a real impact

Meeting monthly at a local restaurant, Le Sud, the Junior Board gathers for hour-long sessions to collaborate on community events, discuss relevant local issues, and develop leadership skills. 

In addition to these regular meetings, board members break into smaller committees that focus on specific areas such as event planning and community service. This structure allows each member to focus on areas that align with their interests and skills.

One of the most important ways the Junior Board connects to the community is through its involvement in large-scale events like Retro and Roscoe, a local street fair, Winter Fest, a fair that features a variety of holiday themed activities, and the annual Halloween Parade. These neighborhood events are planned and overseen by the adult members of the Roscoe Village Neighbors Board, but the Junior Board plays a key role in ensuring they are fun and engaging for all ages.

Not only do Junior Board members help organize the event, but they add ideas for new activities, assist with tasks, and make sure kids are having a fun/safe time.

The opportunity to work hand and hand with the adult RVN Board members allows teens to gain guidance while also contributing to these events in a unique way.

Junior Board member and junior at DePaul College Prep, Audrey Ruger, says, “I originally applied to this board after seeing a social media post about it. It seemed like something I would be interested in and something that would be a lot of fun.”

To join the RVNJB, interested teens must apply in February each year. The application process involves a written reflection and questions explaining why they are a good fit for the board and what they hope to contribute. Once selected, members serve for one year, after which they can apply again if they want to continue their involvement.

In addition to event planning, the Junior Board members work on smaller individual projects that contribute to overall bigger projects. Ruger says, “My favorite memory from this board was the movie night at Retro and Roscoe when we got to give candy and popcorn to all the kids who came to wait for it. It was so cool that one of the events we had planned for so long came to life.”

Steven Nelson, co-leader of the Junior Board and an RVN Board member, emphasized the significance of involving young people in decision making processes. “This board is very important in making sure youth voices are heard,” Nelson said. “Young children make up almost half of Roscoe village, and it’s crucial to ensure their perspectives are considered in the decisions that affect them.”

The Junior Board experience however offers more than just a chance to work on events. It provides teens with the opportunity to develop essential teamwork and leadership skills that will benefit them long after they leave the board.

As they continue to make their voices heard and influence their community in a positive light, the teens involved in the Board hope to add even more ideas to their neighborhood. The Roscoe Village Junior Board serves as a powerful example of how youth can play in shaping the community and keeping a strong voice within decision making to make sure needs of young people are always considered.