Mayor's Youth Leadership Council

The Mayor's Youth Leadership Council was formed in 2001 to involve the high school students of our community in decision-making, leadership development, and future planning for Gastonia. 
 
Purpose
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.
 
School year 2025-2026:

2025-2026 Mayor's Youth Leadership Applications are due by Friday, September 5, 2025.

The Mayor's Youth Leadership Council is involved with numerous projects, including:
  • 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
A few of our accomplishments are:
  • 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



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Gastonia, N.C., just minutes west of Charlotte, is one of the area’s best places to live and work with an ideal combination of location, size and livability. Gastonia is the largest of Gaston County’s 13 municipalities and one of the largest cities in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Selected as an All-America City three times, Gastonia’s desirable quality of life is the result of its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly neighborhoods, responsive government and vibrant business environment.










Contact


✆ 704-866-6714

⟟ 181 S. South Street
Gastonia, NC 28052