Area youths wanting to be involved in advancing the fine arts throughout Webster County are invited to submit an application for the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Youth Advisory Council.

According to Shelly Bottorff, executive director of the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Association, the Youth Advisory Council offers young leaders a voice in shaping the arts and culture in the community.

“Engaging youth in their community and the arts is essential because it empowers them to shape their environment, express their creativity, and build a sense of belonging,” said Bottorff. “By participating, they not only contribute to the vibrancy of their community but also develop the skills and empathy needed to become compassionate and innovative leaders of tomorrow.”

Bottorff said the Youth Advisory Council will create strategies not only for advancing arts education across Webster County, but also in the schools and communities.

“The Youth Advisory Council serves a vital role for the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Association and its members,” she said. “They are involved in new student recruitment for the arts, service projects and are representatives of the student body to discuss student interests within the community. “

Students must be ages 14 to 18 years old, be passionate about the arts and have an interest in civic action. Youths may nominate themselves, but must also include a letter of recommendation that describes why they are a good candidate.

Applications for the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Youth Advisory Council are available online at FDFineArtsAssociation.org.