Empowering the Next Generation of Community Leaders
For over a decade, the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board has been empowering middle and high school students to make a real impact on the Issaquah Highlands community.
The HY Board works with Highlands Council to unify youth through fun and meaningful social experiences by planning and implementing inclusive events, programs and initiatives in our community.
Members of the HY Board play a vital role in strengthening our community. They not only plan outstanding events but also actively participate in board and committee meetings, engage in service projects and take part in social programs. This school year alone, HY Board members have contributed more than 1,200 hours of service to the Issaquah Highlands community.
You might have noticed different teen voices contributing to articles throughout this magazine. One requirement of serving on the HY Board is writing at least one article for Community Connect. It’s been inspiring to see each teen discover how to find meaningful stories, interview residents with confidence and bring fresh perspectives to life on the page.
Throughout this past year, our dedicated teens were able to accomplish the following:
- The HY Board played a valuable role in planning and working at our summer events like Movie on the Green, Global Grub & Groove and End of Summer Community Picnic.
- Members planned and implemented another successful Treats & Tails event for all ages.
- The board supported holiday programming such as the Community Tree Lighting, Santa Letters and Parents Night Out for younger members of the community.
- HY members hosted the Big Game Watch Party for the fourth year in a row, featuring activities and games for all age groups. This year marked our largest turnout yet, with neighbors turning out in force to see the Seahawks beat the Patriots.
- The board is currently finalizing details for its annual Middle School Flashlight Egg Hunt on April 3, followed by Cram for Exams on May 3.
- HY members volunteered at a variety of community events, including our New Neighbor Socials, Open Mic Nights, Village Market Pop-Ups, various gallery receptions and so much more.
Turn Ideas into Action: Apply for the HY Board by April 26
The HY Board is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. Ideal candidates are motivated, passionate, creative and dedicated to making our community better. Candidates must live in Issaquah Highlands. Attendance at monthly meetings, as well as planned events and other opportunities for involvement, is a requirement for all applicants.
This year, we will be accepting applications for students in grades 8-12. If you are entering sixth or seventh grades, please consider volunteering at community events to gain experience and learn more about how the board operates.
The deadline to submit your application is April 26. Top applicants will be invited to a peer interview for final consideration. Visit issaquahhighlands.com/youth to learn more and apply!
If you are a middle or high school student looking for volunteer hours to fulfill requirements, it’s not necessary to join the HY Board to get involved in our community. Please fill out the volunteer form online or subscribe to our Youth E-News at issaquahhighlands.com/youth to find available opportunities.
Be sure to follow the HY Board on Facebook and Instagram and check issaquahhighlands.com/events for future events.
Lindsey Pinkston is the Highlands Council Executive Director and a Wisteria Park resident.
