Senator Stewart-Cousins Hosts Third Annual Youth Advisory Council Community Resources Fair

New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins welcomed members of her Youth Advisory Council (YAC) to the third annual Community Resources Fair on Monday at the Yonkers Riverfront Library. The event connected local organizations, advocates, and community leaders with Westchester’s next generation of changemakers.

The Youth Advisory Council—comprising 50 high school students from across the 35th Senate District—had the opportunity to engage directly with experts in fields such as criminal justice, human rights, social services, and environmental advocacy. Participants explored internship and volunteer opportunities and learned about different pathways to civic engagement and community impact.

“Each year, I’m inspired by the questions, ideas, and perspectives that my Youth Advisory Council members bring forward,” said Senator Stewart-Cousins. “They are not just preparing for the future—they are shaping it now. This fair gives them the tools, connections, and confidence to turn their passion into action.”

Organizations represented at the fair included Cluster, Feeding Westchester, Groundwork Hudson Valley, Hope’s Door, Family Service Society of Yonkers, NAACP, Neighbors Link, Girls Inc., Nonprofit Westchester, New Bridges, OCA Westchester and Hudson Valley, AAPI MAANGO, P-CoC, Volunteer New York!, Westchester County Human Rights Commission, Westchester County Youth Bureau, Westchester Disabled on the Move, WJCS, Westchester Women’s Agenda, and the Westchester Youth Alliance.

“Young people are powerful voices for justice, equality, and opportunity,” added Senator Stewart-Cousins. “By bringing them together with organizations working on the front lines, we’re encouraging them to lead with purpose and vision.”

For many YAC members, the event was both inspiring and empowering.