Youth Activation Committee

The Youth Activation Committee (YAC) is about activating youth to promote school communities where all young people are agents of change – fostering respect, dignity and advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities.

Wisconsin Youth Activation Committee (YAC) for Project UNIFY®

Wisconsin Youth Activation Committee (YAC) for Project UNIFY® is a select group of student athletes and partners, ages 13-21, from across the state that have demonstrated great leadership and compassion for Special Olympics athletes. They will serve as youth liaisons to the SOWI Project UNIFY Staff in planning and implementing Project UNIFY in schools and communities throughout the state. They will also play an important role in the planning and execution of the Youth Activation Summits. The Wisconsin YAC will meet face-to-face twice a year and have conference calls monthly.

Become a Member

If you are interested becoming a committee member, speak to your club advisor about the position. Any are welcome. If you and your advisor both agree the position is right for you, email Krysten Kirsch at KKirsch@specialolympicswisconsin.org.

What’s the schedule like?

The time commitment is based on the student’s dedication. On top of the monthly conference calls and bi-yearly meetings, YAC members will be expected to participate in activities within their school that support Project UNIFY. Some students will devote more time than others, but we expect everyone to contribute in a meaningful way. The travel commitment is flexible, and we will try to work around the committee member as much as possible.

YAC members will have the opportunity to serve on other Special Olympics committees and boards. We want youth representation in everything we do!

What would I have to do?

The responsibilities of the position are also dependent on the committee member. The main role of a YAC member is to provide leadership to Special Olympics and Project UNIFY by participating in major Special Olympics events. They provide advice and counsel on strategies designed to reach other youth, engage in and promote Special Olympics activities in their home environments, communicate the initiatives of Special Olympics and Project UNIFY, network with other youth locally and statewide, and review Project UNIFY materials for innovation and practicality.

What is a Youth Activation Summit?

Any students in middle or high school are invited to attend the statewide Youth Activation Summits (YAS). A YAS is a summit of youth leaders from around the state, with and without cognitive disabilities, coming together to learn about youth leadership and social justice through Special Olympics sports and activities. Special Olympics Wisconsin aims to host two YAS each school year.

At the local level…

Each school is required to have a School Coordinating Team that lead Project UNIFY within their school.

School Coordinating Teams

School Coordinating Teams are comprised of one special education teacher, one general education teacher, one athlete, and one youth without a cognitive disability, as well as some involvement from a school administrator. This group of individuals’ works together to serve as project leaders for their school’s Project UNIFY® programs.

Forms - Coming Soon!

• Youth Activation Committee Nomination Form
• Youth Activation Summit Information Packet
• Youth Activation Summit Registration Form