For several years, the McDonough County Youth Task Force has provided numerous outreach programs and services to youth, and their families, in the county, and as a sub-committee of the longstanding McDonough County Quality of Life Advisory Committee. The task force brings together professionals from education, social services, law enforcement and community organizations who volunteer their time and expertise to support youth and strengthen the quality of life in McDonough County.
The task force is currently accepting applications from those professionals who serve youth to become a member of the subcommittee. According to the Youth Task Force Chair Abby Beck, who also serves as the Regional Office of Education #26 director of attendance and family support services, the sub-committee focuses on collaboration, resource-sharing and coordinated efforts that promote wellness, safety and opportunity for children and families across McDonough County.
Each year, the Youth Task Force sponsors First Responder Field Day, which provides McDonough County-area elementary students to learn from local first responders; a Spring Resource Outreach, a coordinated effort to share information about youth programs, summer camps, and recreational opportunities available throughout McDonough County, and Student Recognition Program that recognizes K–12 students who demonstrate leadership, kindness, service, and a positive impact on the community. The task force meets monthly throughout the school year to plan initiatives, share updates from organization and identify gaps or opportunities to better support local youth.
To get involved, individuals are asked to complete an interest form at tinyurl.com/MCYTFInterestForm. For more information, contact Abby Beck at [email protected].
