• You must have personal experience within the child welfare system (foster care, adoption, guardianship, or independent living).
• Reside in Hidalgo, Starr, Cameron, or Willacy County.
• Be between 15 and 26 years old.
• Have an interest in youth leadership, advocacy, foster care, education, or community service.
• Able to commit to monthly virtual meetings and occasional in-person events.

• The standard term is 12 months, beginning upon acceptance into the Council.
• Members may reapply for consecutive terms, subject to performance and capacity.
• Early resignation should be submitted in writing to TAFYS.

All Council Members are expected to:

• Attend at least 80% of scheduled meetings and events (virtual or in-person).
• Actively participate in planning, discussions, and decision-making.
• Represent TAFYS respectfully in public spaces, media, and advocacy forums.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding internal discussions and sensitive youth issues.

Members agree to:

• Treat fellow members, staff, and partners with respect and professionalism.
• Promote inclusivity, youth voice, and peer empowerment.
• Abstain from bullying, harassment, discrimination, or use of hate speech.
• Follow all applicable local, state, and federal laws.

• Meeting dates and times will be determined subsequent to the selection of council members.

• Members will receive an hourly stipend based on attendance and participation.
• Missed meetings or failure to complete assigned tasks may result in reduced or forfeited stipends.

IMPORTANT: If a youth participant earns $600 or more in total during a calendar year for their work with TAFYS (including gift cards), we are required by the IRS to request a completed Form W-9. These earnings are considered taxable income, and TAFYS may issue a Form 1099-NEC.