Human Services Director Barbara Butler announced today that the Westport Youth Commission is seeking Westport high school students and community adults interested in serving on the commission beginning next fall 2013.

 “The Youth Commission serves as a public forum for youth issues, and advocates for youth needs and concerns in the community,” said Butler. “Its 30 members, 15 students and 15 adults, are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the First Selectman.”

 Among the Youth Commission’s past achievements are the creation of Toquet Hall; startup of the Compo Beach skate park; the development of Speedial, a pocket-sized informational and help guide for teens; the development of a comprehensive community plan to address underage drinking; outdoor summer movies for teens at the Levitt Pavilion; and the I-Mentor program, a student-run Internet safety program for young people, the Westport Kindness Project and the Westport Police Youth Collaborative.

In addition, the commission continues to welcome public input regarding issues important to youth and families in town.

 The Youth Commission meets monthly. Members serve on committees according to their interests throughout the school year. Youth members are eligible for appointment in grades 10 through 12, and interested ninth graders may serve on a freshman committee.

 For further information and necessary forms go to www.westportct.gov or contact Elaine Daignault at 203-341-1165, or elained@westportct.gov.