Youth Steering Committee 2026
Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers
Humane Action Pennsylvania’s Youth Steering Committee (YSC) is an annual leadership program for high school students in grades 10–12 who are passionate about protecting animals and the environment. Through hands-on projects and mentorship, YSC equips students with the tools to become informed advocates and future leaders in humane policy and community engagement.
Students meet once a month for a focused class on a key aspect of advocacy campaign work. Topics include fundraising strategies, media relations, effective communication with legislators, and more. These sessions are designed to build practical skills, foster leadership, and deepen students’ understanding of how change happens—from the ground up.
Earn a $1,000 empowerment stipend after successful completion of the Youth Steering Committee!
In addition to monthly classes, students are invited to take part in optional enrichment opportunities
throughout the year. The 2024–2025 cohort, for example, received a proclamation from Pittsburgh City Council, visited a local farm animal sanctuary, and led the installation of a pollinator garden to benefit native wildlife. Each year, the program evolves to offer new enrichment opportunities, ensuring students walk away with both knowledge and a deep sense of impact.
After completing the program, students are invited to join HAP’s YSC Alumni Committee—a growing network of young changemakers who continue to stay involved, support new cohorts, and participate in special projects and advocacy campaigns.
Whether working to influence legislation or planting the seeds of change in their own communities, Youth Steering Committee members are helping to build a more compassionate and sustainable future.
Our 2026-27 Schedule:
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – East Liberty
130 S. Whitfield St., Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Saturday mornings 10:30am – 12pm
September 19, 2026
October 24, 2026
November 14, 2026
December 12, 2026
January 9, 2027
February 13, 2027
March 20, 2027
April 10, 2027
May 8, 2027
Applications for our 2026-2027 cohort are now open.
Applicant requirements
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in high school (grades 10–12) for the duration of the school year
- Demonstrate an interest in animal protection, environmental issues, advocacy, or community service
- Be reliable, motivated, and able to work both independently and collaboratively
- Have reliable transportation to monthly in-person sessions
Note: The meeting location is accessible by public transportation and located along a bus line
- Submit a completed application form
Applicants who advance past the initial application review will be invited to a virtual interview, which must be attended with a parent or supporting adult as the final step in the selection process.
Student benefits
Participants in the Youth Steering Committee will gain:
- Mentorship from leaders at Pennsylvania’s foremost animal and environmental advocacy organization
- Professional development through monthly workshops on campaign strategy, public speaking, media relations, and more
- A $1,000 empowerment stipend awarded to all students who successfully complete the program in May
- Letters of recommendation provided upon successful completion—ideal for college, scholarships, and job applications
- A lasting peer network of like-minded students committed to compassion, sustainability, and civic engagement
- The opportunity to join the YSC Alumni Committee, where students can continue their advocacy work and support future cohorts
- Real-world experience in advocacy, civic engagement, and public service—skills that stand out on résumés and college applications
If you are interested in sponsoring our Youth Steering Committee, click on the button below.
Questions? Please contact Natalie Ahwesh, Executive Director, at Natalie.A@humaneactionpennsylvania.org.
Humane Action Pennsylvania strives to provide reasonable accommodations for our program participants, volunteers, and staff. If you have any concerns about the application process, or would like to discuss an accommodation, please connect with us by emailing info@humaneactionpennsylvania.org.
