Recreation Programming
Where to go to learn moreTeen CouncilsWuzz up TeensTeen Parks and Recreation Board
Teen CouncilsTeen councils are area youth groups that meet on a regular basis and provide input to recreation staff on programs and services for teens. Teen councils usually plan activities related to their three main service components; recreational, social and community oriented programs. Youth representatives from recreation centers, schools, libraries or park sites meet weekly/bimonthly to plan activities, trips, special events, educational development and agendas with trained professional recreation staff. Teen council members elect their officers and representatives and send a representative to the Teen Parks and Recreation Board. |
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The idea of teen councils has grown tremendously in the Parks and Recreation Department. This concept has expanded to more than 26 teen councils throughout the City of Phoenix.
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Wuzz Up Teens Newsletters
In 1993, staff at the At Risk Youth Division coordinated the production
of the first quarterly teen newsletter. This newsletter is developed and written
by teens for teens within the City of Phoenix. Youth are actively involved in
all aspects of the creation of the newsletter including writing, editing, page
layout, graphical design and distribution.
The newsletter program was implemented to give youth the opportunity to learn about journalism, express creativity and become involved in a decision making body. The publication offers youth an avenue to voice concerns and opinions, provide information and an outlet for creative expression.
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Teen Parks and Recreation Board
The Teen Parks and Recreation Board grew out of a recommendation from youth
that attended the First Annual Teen Conference held in 1991. The Teen Board
is modeled after the Teen Council concept. Twenty youths from five parks and
recreation districts and the At Risk Youth Division meet on a monthly basis
to review programs and policies related to youth issues. The Board then makes
recommendations to Department and Division administrative staff. In addition,
the youth boards assist with the implementation of special projects such as
the annual teen conference and the Wuzz Up Teens Newsletter. Additionally, the
Board Chair is a member of the Parks and Recreation Board, which is the policy
board for the Parks and Recreation Department. The Teen Parks Recreation Board
is a volunteer citizen body and serves without pay.
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