What is the YAC?

The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is a group of local high school students who review applications and recommend grants for programs that benefit young people in our community. Through this work, students learn about philanthropy and community needs firsthand and gain real experience as decision-makers and leaders.

YAC members meet at least once a month during the school year for grantmaking, site visits to local organizations, and learning about community needs and philanthropy. Recently, YAC members have volunteered with the Boys and Girls Club, Holland Language Academy, Resthaven, and Single MOMM. They also represented the Holland/Zeeland area at a state-wide conference for youth advisory committees and took the QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Youth Suicide Prevention Training with Mosaic Counseling.

Open Seats in 2026

The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) seeks candidates for these open seats:

• 4 seats open to current 8th, 9th, or 10th grade students at Holland Christian High School
• 2 seats open to current 8th, 9th, or 10th grade students at Black River Public School
• 2 seats open to current 8th, 9th or 10th grade students at Holland High School
• 2 seats open to current 8th, 9th or 10th grade students at Zeeland East High School
• 1 seat open to a current 8th, 9th or 10th grade student at West Ottawa High School
• 1 seat open to a current 8th, 9th or 10th grade student who are resides in the Holland/Zeeland area and is homeschooled, or attends remote school or a school of choice outside our community.

Selection Process

In selecting new members, the YAC looks for young people who:

• Care about the community and want to make a difference.
• Bring diverse perspectives and are open-minded, critical thinkers able to discuss tough issues and creative solutions.
• Demonstrate integrity and initiative in their actions and decisions.

Expectations of YAC members:

• Attend required grant meetings three times a year and the majority of all other YAC activities and meetings. YAC meetings are usually held from 5:30-7:30 pm on weeknights and dinner is provided.
• Come to meetings prepared and actively participate in decision-making and activities.
• Be an advocate for the YAC, CFHZ, and the needs of youth in the Holland/Zeeland area.

APPLY HERE

All applicants will be notified of final decisions by the end of May. If you have any questions about the application or the YAC, please contact Yadah V. Ramirez at yramirez@cfhz.org or 616.994.8862.