To empower youth as leaders, volunteers, peer mentors, and community decision makers.
Mission
To serve the common good of the community and provide a voice for the city’s youth while organizing and participating in constructive community service projects, strengthening relationships among all members of the community, building a noncompetitive spirit between students of Gastonia area schools, promoting youth participation in governmental affairs, and acting as a resource for any city organization upon request.
2025-2026 Mayor's Youth Leadership Applications are due by Friday, September 5, 2025.
- Planning and providing a meal for the Shelter of Gaston County
- Planning and implementing activities for the Gastonia Boys and Girls Club
- Volunteering at the Community Foundation Run
- Volunteering at the Greater Gaston Senior Games
- Fundraising for the American Cancer Society at Relay for Life
- Volunteering at the Senior Thanksgiving Luncheon
- Volunteering at the Gaston County Animal Shelter
- Volunteering at the Annual Breakfast with Santa City Event
- Volunteering at the Annual Easter Egg Hunt held at Martha Rivers Park
- Created the Annual Christmas Toy Drive - Toys given out at Christmas in the City
- 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament - fundraiser involving area high school students to fund MYLC projects
- Hosting a Special Olympics Trunk or Treat
- Visiting Nursing Homes to hand out Goodie Bags
- Gaston Boys and Girls Club - organized and hosted seasonal parties with food, games and activities for Christmas and Valentine's Day
- Created the Annual Special Olympics Fishing Tournament - held at Rankin Lake Park
