Four Dunkirk High School students, selected by their Principal Paul Lyons, had the opportunity to travel to the state capital for the annual Association of New York State Youth Bureau's Leadership Conference. The four students chosen were Mikayla Moloney, Katherine Carr, Rafael Muller and Zachary Torain, accompanied by Larisa Aldrich, from the City of Dunkirk Youth Bureau.
These students attended the two-day conference which included a tour of the capital building and breakout sessions with many youth from across the state. The youth were recognized for their leadership roles and community service dedication. During the conference, the attendees were informed on New York State's budget plans for their local youth bureaus and how their voices and involvement in their communities could help reduce budget cuts for programs they find vital in their lives.
The four students met with Senator Catherine Young and Assemblyman Andrew Goodell. They were given the opportunity to speak with their legislatures and personally tell them how important funding for youth programs is to them, what they have been involved in throughout their school and community, and why youth programs are vital to youth in Chautauqua County. It was an experience that these students will never forget.
Article Photos
Submitted Photo
From left, standing: Zachary Torain, Senator Catharine Young and Rafael Muller. Sitting: Larisa Aldrich, Katherine Carr and Mikayla Moloney.
