By Roger Jimenez, Interning Correspondent for The Apopka Voice
Members of the Apopka Youth Council (AYC) presented their 2025 End-of-Year Report at the June 18th Apopka City Council meeting, showcasing the program’s impact on youth engagement, civic awareness, and community service throughout the academic year.
The Apopka Youth Council offers local students the opportunity to serve, grow, and engage with city government, making meaningful contributions to their community. Members participate in service projects, learn about municipal operations, and develop leadership skills through a speaker series featuring local leaders.
Throughout the year, AYC members took part in several initiatives, including:
- Supporting local Eco Bike Rides by distributing water and snacks
- Organizing community recycling days, collecting 5,641 pounds of electronics and 1,197 pounds of paper waste
- Participating in Adopt-a-Road cleanups across Apopka
- Publishing Legends of Apopka: Volume 3, raising over $1,000 for the Apopka Museum’s expansion fund
- Hosting the Legends of Apopka event, which honored local leaders and drew over 400 attendees
- Coordinating the Burgers, Books, and Badges event to promote literacy among youth
- Running a “Loaves and Fishes” donation drive to collect hygiene products for those in need
Several graduating members addressed the council to reflect on their experience in the program and share plans. Among them was Olivia Hodge, who spoke about the long-term impact of the program.
“Apopka Youth Council has not only allowed me to interact with my community in so many ways, but we made a change in it,” she said. “Thank you, Apopka Youth Council, for the opportunities and the skills that I will carry for a lifetime.”
Applications for the 2025–2026 Apopka Youth Council are currently open. Go to apopka.gov/AYC.
