IMPACT Committee

Highland Park Youth

  • Would you like to learn more about your local government?
  • Are you interested in making a local IMPACT?

Participants receive in-depth exposure to local government and important issues facing the community through lectures, discussion groups, on-site visits, and other activities. The program enables members to develop and practice skills critical to working with volunteers, meaningful civic engagement, building strong relationships, and preparing for the challenges of the years to come.

Eligibility

  • Students must reside in the Town of Highland Park and be in the 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade at the beginning of the upcoming academic year.
  • IMPACT members are expected to attend all group meetings and actively participate in all designated events.

The Town will provide community service hour credits for committee members for the time they serve in the volunteer opportunities provided. 

Mission Statement

Empowering our youth to think and act as ethical leaders and responsible citizens; to have a voice in the Town’s pursuit of excellence across all services to the community.

The Program

Each year, up to 16 students are selected to participate in a 10-month program that includes:

  • Orientation 
  • Seven meetings during the school year
  • Volunteering opportunities

Program Goals

  • Provide a systematic program to enhance awareness of community opportunities, challenges, and resources
  • Open lines of communication and strengthen existing relationships with community leaders
  • Encourage participants to broaden their involvement in community affairs by matching skills and interests to existing needs
  • Explore leadership skills and how to become a more effective leader

Program Activities 

  • Monthly sessions
  • Team building
  • Leadership skills development
  • Communication skills development

Partnering with HPCAN

Highland Park Community Assisting Neighbors (HPCAN) is a Town of Highland Park employee-driven group of volunteers who organize service projects for neighboring communities. This year the group has worked with the Ronald McDonald House and spearheaded a food drive to help economically challenged Dallas areas.

HPCAN provides Christmas gifts by adopting families through a local non-profit, which provides shelter for victims of domestic violence. Town staff is eager to work with IMPACT and looks forward to our partnership because together we CAN make a difference in the greater Dallas Community!

Application Process

The Town is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 academic year until July. 

Download Application

For more information, email Joanna Mekeal, Town Secretary, 214-559-9457 or Kortney Nelson, Town Librarian, 214-559-9404.