~ Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has announced that applications for the 2024-2025 SPARK Boston Council are now open and available online. The council, which is made up of 20 to 35 year olds, serves as a volunteer leadership and civic engagement group charged with spearheading the city's efforts to engage young adults.

According to Mayor Wu, SPARK Boston is an invaluable way for young adults to get involved in city government and have their voices heard on issues that impact them and their peers. She expressed her excitement for getting to know the new council members and thanked the outgoing council for their hard work in representing all corners of the city.

Under the direction of SPARK Boston Director Aidan McDonough, the 2024-2025 Council will create programming and advise Boston's leaders on how to make the city a more inviting, connected, culturally rich, and sustainable home for young adults. Throughout their term, council members will have the opportunity to hear from key members of the Mayor's administration, leaders within City Hall, and community organizations on topics such as climate resilience, education, housing, nightlife, and civic innovation.

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Director McDonough emphasized that SPARK Boston is not only an opportunity for young adults to get more civically involved but also a chance to network with like-minded peers and be in rooms with decision-makers who are working towards creating a better Boston for everyone.

Past council members have come from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds including public service, higher education, and scientific research. The council meets on the first Monday of each month and members are encouraged to attend one community meeting and one SPARK event or subcommittee meeting per month. Applicants must reside in Boston and be willing to commit 15 hours monthly to the program. SPARK Boston has been serving young adults and the City of Boston for over 18 years.

Chief of Community Engagement Brianna Millor praised past council members as changemakers in the city and encouraged young adults to apply for the 2024-2025 council if they are interested in deepening their service within Boston.

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While the current 2023-2024 SPARK Council will continue their work through the end of their term in August, they have already participated in several opportunities, including attending Mayor Wu's State of the City address, volunteering during the Office of Civic Organizing's Civic Summit, and organizing thousands of toys for Toys for Tots. The council has also continued legacy and signature programming such as Neighborhood Socials, Chief Chats, and Pint with a Planner.

Samantha Montaño, a State Representative and SPARK Boston alum, shared her positive experience with the program, stating that it provided her with an opportunity to learn from her cohort and see the city through their eyes. She encouraged others to apply if given the chance.

Current SPARK council member Long Tong also spoke highly of his experience with the program, highlighting his work on creating voter turnout maps for Boston neighborhoods. He emphasized that SPARK Boston provides members with opportunities to engage with civic leaders and reconnect with alumni.

Applications for the 2024-2025 SPARK Boston Council are due on Friday, July 5th. This is a unique opportunity for young adults to make a difference in their city and be part of shaping its future.

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