Berkshire Taconic’s Youth in Democracy Fellowship program provides a platform for young adults to create projects to explore an issue they are passionate about. Supported by a youth-serving organization and a college student mentor, they work with local government through consensus-building, advocacy, and collaboration to create positive change at the local level.
BTCF is partnering with five regional nonprofits this year: Railroad Street Youth Project, 18 Degrees, North East Community Center, 21st Century Fund and Operation Unite. Students receive a stipend, can collaborate with fellow students, and receive guidance from their college mentor as they bring their idea to fruition. Each student receives a stipend.
Voter Registration Drive
In a timely response to the electoral climate, fellows Asharia, Myah, and Alan organized a voter registration drive at 18 Degrees in Pittsfield, MA and are planning another. Partnering with nonpartisan CareVote, a statewide association of nonprofit community organizations, they’re educating their community on local voting procedures while gaining a valuable introduction to the democratic process. After the November elections, the fellows will attend Pittsfield city council meetings to propose more democracy-focused projects. Paul Marienthal of Bard College, assisted by 18 Degrees staff, will bring an interactive workshop on public speaking to the fellows so they can continue to find their voices and practice speaking up.
Harvest Festival
Consulting with local businesses and town officials, fellows Zaina and Angel planned a Harvest Festival for the residents of Millerton and Wassaic, NY from 12-4 on October 27 at Eddie Collins Memorial Park (Millerton Community Park). This family-friendly event will celebrate the community's rich cultural diversity and feature games, activities, food trucks and a barbecue station. The festival aims to create an inclusive, joyful atmosphere where residents of all ages can come together to enjoy a positive shared experience that highlights the talents of local vendors and neighbors.
Other youth projects in the works are a drone assistance program and training sessions for the Fire Department of Falls Village, CT, and a community garden project in North Adams.
If you would like to support our ongoing work with the Youth in Democracy Initiative, please donate to our Community Fund.
