Announcement:
FEMA will host three webinars for potential applicants to learn more about the YPC application process, what YPC members actually do, and have the opportunity to ask FEMA staff questions.
What is the YPC?
FEMA's Youth Preparedness Council (YPC) offers youth grades 9-12 an opportunity to support FEMA's commitment to promote and sustain a prepared nation and provide their perspectives, feedback and opinions on strategies, initiatives, and projects.
Students will gain professional skills and build new relationships through connections with their local and state emergency management partners.
Students who apply may be accepted to serve on either the national council or Region 10 council, which consists of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.
What do you do on the Region 10 Council?
Council terms are for 12 months, typically running from August to July. You will be supported by Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) Community Preparedness Coordinator and connected with emergency management partners in your area. Most members spend 4-10 hours a month on council activities. You are required to:
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Create a project that increases preparedness education or initiatives in your community
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Attend and engage in monthly virtual meetings with fellow members and FEMA staff
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Complete assignments on time
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Present project to council and FEMA staff
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Meet with OEM staff
What happens if I'm selected?
Once selected for the Region 10 council, students will be invited to visit FEMA Region 10's office in Lynnwood, Washington where they will:
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Connect with youth from Alaska, Idaho and Washington
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Meet the Regional Administrator and other key FEMA personnel
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Visit the Federal Regional Center (FRC)
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Begin brainstorming preparedness project ideas
Note: Travel costs will be funded by FEMA for members living more than 50 miles from Lynnwood, WA.
In Oregon, students will:
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Visit the OEM office and tour the Emergency Coordination Center (ECC)
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Meet OEM Executive Leadership and staff
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Connect with local emergency management partners and other key partners to support your project
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Have the opportunity to share your project with emergency management partners across Oregon
Who Can Apply?
Students currently in grades 8-11 who are passionate about preparedness and committed to building more resilient communities. Participants are chosen based on their dedication to public service, community involvement and potential to increase levels of community resilience.
How Do I Apply?
Applications will open January 22nd, 2024 and close
March 4th, 2024. Be sure to complete all sections of the application, including:
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Parental or guardian consent
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A complete application for (including narrative responses to all questions)
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Letters of recommendation
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A list of extracurricular activities
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Any supplemental materials that showcase your abilities
Top applicants will be invited to interview in April 2024. Selected members will be notified in May.
For questions regarding the YPC, contact the Community Preparedness Coordinator at
community.preparedness@oem.oregon.gov