U.S. Representative Larry Kissell’s office is accepting applications for local students to become a part of Kissell’s Eighth District Congressional Youth Council. The Youth Council is open to young people between the ages of 14 and 19. Council members have the opportunity to learn more about government, the process of shaping public policy and to meet with Congressman Kissell to discuss issues important to youth in the Eighth District.

“The Congressional Youth Council has served as a great opportunity for young people in our district to be active in not only their government, but also their local communities,” said Kissell. “As a former social studies teacher, I believe it is important for our youth to understand how government works and be involved in all that surrounds them. The work we’ve been able to do with our Youth Council has helped to continue that idea of service at local levels throughout our district, and I look forward to extending this opportunity to more young folks throughout our area to help us grow this effort.”

Kissell has joined members of the Youth Council recently in working to help the victims of the tornado in Harrisburg with clean-up efforts, completing service projects for area charities and nonprofits, and working alongside volunteers to help build a home with a local Habitat for Humanity chapter. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

“When we join together to help our local communities, we accomplish a broader goal of making our area a better place, and I’m honored to join these young people in working to do just that,” added Kissell. “If you know a young person looking for an opportunity to be a part of this effort to help our area, please urge them to consider joining our Youth Council.”

Students interested in participating in the Congressional Youth Council can complete an application, found under the “Students” section of Kissell’s website, at www.kissell.house.gov. For more information, contact Allison Auman at 704-786-1612.