Please share with recent graduates and other youth who are eligible. See attached flier for more information. 

The NYS Youth Justice Institute (YJI) is expanding its Youth Justice Peer Advisory Council (PAC) membership. 

The YJI provides training, technical assistance, research, and evaluation support to youth justice-related state agencies, local partners, and others who work directly with youth 25 and under. Their approach spans the continuum of care (from prevention to reentry) and is rooted in racial, ethnic, gender, ability, and geographic equity. Our team comprises trained social scientists, data analysts, practitioners, and professionals with lived system experience. Importantly, we ensure that youth voices remain central to justice system decision-making. 

To honor this commitment, at the core of our mission is the Peer Advisory Council (PAC) — a group of young individuals (ages 18-25) who bring their lived system experience to the table to help inform policy and decision-making. The PAC’s goal is to represent youth from across New York State, reflecting diverse racial, ethnic, and gender identities, as well as individuals of all abilities. PAC members are pivotal in ensuring that youth perspectives are heard and considered in critical conversations about youth justice. 

Key Benefits for PAC Members:
• Monetary compensation for their work with the Council. 
• Mentoring, networking, and professional skill-building opportunities.
• A meaningful platform to inform youth justice leaders on ways to support all of New York’s youth.