Youth Voice

First Term (2018 - Current)

Big Idea

CM Cunningham empowers young people to get involved in the political process.

Accomplishments

CM Cunningham regularly provides classroom talks at Northside schools about the importance of getting involved in the political process, using this time to seek their feedback on current events and policies.
CM Cunningham mentors multiple Step Up interns in his office every cohort, empowering them to work on projects that they are passionate about.
CM Cunningham regularly engages with teachers to pass along opportunities for students to speak at public hearings on issues that matter to them.
CM Cunningham is collaborating with School Board Director At-Large Kimberly Caprini to create a youth violence prevention curriculum that will be co-developed with students.
CM Cunningham is in the process of building a Youth Advisory Committee, which he will consult with when making policy decisions.
CM Cunningham regularly attends Patrick Henry functions and chaperones the Prom and Homecoming every year so that young people know who he is and can build a relationship with him.

Big Idea

CM Cunningham will continue to create space and empower youth voice in policy decisions.

Planned Focus Areas

Continue mentoring Step Up interns every cohort.
Integrate Ward 4 Councilman Youth Advisory Committee into major decision-making processes.
Problem-solve youth issues with Ward 4 Councilman Youth Advisory Committee.
Ensure implementation of the new Group Violence Intervention Junior, created by a CM Cunningham staff directive, which focuses on disrupting youth involvement with groups and group violence.
Support the implementation of the co-developed youth violence prevention curriculum in schools.
Continue working closely with teachers to share opportunities for young people to get involved and advocate for themselves on issues that matter to them.
Continue guest lecturing now that in-person learning has resumed.