Six new faces have joined our Youth Advisory Council this year from schools all around the county, and we’re excited to see the different perspectives each of them will bring to the group!
So far they’ve had orientation and teambuilding, but all are anxious to get more involved in their community through grantmaking, especially those that help their peers with mental health.
Read more below to learn about why they joined YAC.
Preston Lee
Junior at Port Huron Northern High School
Other activities he’s involved with: varsity tennis, coaching at the Port Huron Tennis House, Port Huron Endowment Fund student group, National Honor Society, class vice president of Student Council
“I had heard about some of the work that YAC did and I really wanted to get involved in this and help make my community better. I also wanted to learn about the grantmaking process and how community foundations operate. I am looking forward to learning about these processes and making my community better, but I am most looking forward to the connections and friendships I can build through YAC. From the people I’ve met and the friends I’ve made so far, I can’t wait to see who else will impact my life through YAC.”
Annika Hughes
Sophomore at Yale High School
Other activities she’s involved with: varsity volleyball, tennis, volunteering through her church
“The reason I wanted to join YAC was because of all the community involvement. I had heard about all the great things YAC has done for the community from fellow members and it really inspired me to join. I am most looking forward to seeing how our grants better the community. I cannot wait for our first proposal and to see it come to life. I hope this year is great!”
Ian Avers
Senior at Algonac High School
Other activities he’s involved with: Students Against Destructive Decisions, Care Bag Movement, National Honor Society, Student Council, varsity basketball team
“I joined YAC because I wanted to be involved with making decisions that affect youth in my area. I also saw it as a place to meet like-minded individuals that want the best for their community. I am most looking forward to giving grants to organizations that deserve it. Along with that I am excited about events that come with being a part of this group.”
Emma Terhune
Junior at Marine City High School
Other activities she’s involved with: softball, basketball, cross country, Interact Club, Student Government, National Honor Society and work as a hostess at a local restaurant
“The idea to join YAC was presented to me at school and I wanted to join because I saw how rewarding it was for previous students at Marine City. I also wanted to meet new people and gain a better understanding of the work done in our area. I am most looking forward to working with a wonderful team and seeing our work impact the community.”
Zishan Lal
Freshman at Port Huron Northern High School
Other activities he’s involved with: Quiz Bowl, LEAD, class president of Student Council and work at his mom’s rheumatology practice
“I wanted to join the YAC because I wanted to understand my community and its problems better and to learn from people who are trying to provide solutions to these problems. I’m looking forward to making new friends and meeting new people who share the same interests as me.”
Paige Voss
Freshman at Port Huron High School
Other activities she’s involved with: theatre, volleyball, track, Student Council, drama club, dance and voice lessons. she also plays the piano and violin
“I wanted to join the YAC to learn more and get involved in my community. I am most looking forward to seeing what causes we give grants to and to learn the process of awarding grants.”
