Missouri State Youth Advisory Board
About this resource
The Missouri State Youth Advisory Board (SYAB) is made up of young people who are currently in foster care or have been in out-of-home care before. SYAB members speak up on behalf of other youth by giving feedback and ideas to the Children’s Division and Juvenile Court about rules and policies that affect their lives.
Each year, the board works together to set goals and plan activities for future meetings.
SYAB also helps spread helpful information by sharing it with local Area Youth Advisory Boards and other youth groups, like leadership teams, so everyone stays informed and connected.
Who can use this resource (eligibility)?
Who can become a member?
Missouri is divided into seven regions, and each region can have up to four board members. This helps make sure every area is equally represented.
There can also be up to three non-voting members, called ex-officio members. These are youth who have been part of the board or served as alternates within the last three years. To be an ex-officio member, you must have been on the board for at least one year.
Board members serve for one year at a time, and there are certain guidelines they need to follow to stay active on the board.
How can I apply to be a member?
If you want to join the State Youth Advisory Board (SYAB), here’s what you need to do:
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Get nominated by your local Area Youth Advisory Board or your Chafee/TLP provider.
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Fill out an application and get two reference letters:
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One from your Chafee or TLP provider
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One from someone who works with you, like your case manager, juvenile officer, Guardian ad Litem, or a trusted adult in your community
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Bring your application and letters to an SYAB meeting. The board members will meet with you for an interview to get to know you better..