Woodbridge Launches VOYCE Youth Civic Initiative

The Town of Woodbridge is proud to announce the launch of the pilot year of Woodbridge VOYCE (Voices of Youth Civic Engagement), a new initiative designed to connect local high school students directly with Town government through hands-on participation in boards, commissions, and committees.

The program will invite Woodbridge students in grades 10–12 to serve as non-voting student advisory members on participating Town committees and commissions during the 2026–2027 academic year.

Through the program, students will gain firsthand experience with local government, public policy, leadership, and civic engagement while contributing their youth perspectives to community discussions and initiatives.

The VOYCE pilot program was developed collaboratively by Town leadership, Youth Services, and Amity Regional High School students Josh A., Evan G., Rory L., Kirian O., and Luca S., to strengthen civic participation and build stronger connections between local government and younger residents.

Participating students may serve on boards, commissions, and committees focused on issues like sustainability, recreation, housing, public safety, economic development, conservation, human services, and more.

“This program is about opening the door to local government in a meaningful and accessible way,” said First Selectman Mica Cardozo. “Students are deeply impacted by decisions made at the local level, and VOYCE creates an opportunity for them to learn how government works while also contributing valuable insight and perspective.”

The initiative was organized and developed through the leadership of Woodbridge Youth Services staff member Hillary Drumm, who worked directly with the students to shape the structure and vision of the pilot program.

“Young people want to be involved when they feel like their voices genuinely matter,” said Hillary Drumm, Woodbridge Youth Services. “VOYCE is about moving beyond asking students to observe government and instead inviting them to participate in it. This program gives students real experience, real mentorship, and a real opportunity to contribute to their community.”

The initiative is designed as a structured mentorship and leadership experience that includes:

• Orientation and training on municipal government and meeting procedures
• Guidance regarding Connecticut Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requirements
• Ongoing mentorship from committee chairs and Town staff
• Quarterly check-ins and program evaluation
• Opportunities for civic leadership and community-based projects
  

The Town emphasized that students would serve only in advisory capacities and would not participate in voting or executive session discussions. The pilot also includes clear expectations, protections, and accountability measures to ensure a productive and educational experience for all participants.

Applications for the pilot program will open on May 15, 2026, and close on June 15, 2026.

Selected students will be notified in July and begin service in September, following an orientation process in August.

Eligible students must:

• Be Woodbridge residents
• Be entering grades 10–12 for the 2026–2027 school year
• Submit an application and personal statement
• Commit to active participation throughout the academic year

The Town hopes the program will not only strengthen youth engagement in Woodbridge but also serve as a model for other municipalities interested in expanding civic participation opportunities for young residents.

More information, including applications, committee descriptions, and program materials, is available at: www.woodbridgect.org/714/VOYCE

For questions about the program, contact: Woodbridge VOYCE VOYCE@WoodbridgeCT.gov