It is my privilege to present you with the 1998/99 Youth Commission Annual Report.
The philosophy of the Youth Commission is to bridge the gap between youth and government by serving as representatives for children and youth in San Francisco. This year, we accomplished our goals by advocating for children and youth issues, and expanding the involvement of more and more young people in decisions that affect our everyday lives. In our third year, the Youth Commission has come a long way. My fellow Commissioners, staff, and I are all excited and proud of the many achievements during our '98-'99 term. The Commission worked on many ongoing projects and organized exciting events that ranged from Statewide to local involvement of children and youth. Through this report you will learn about our accomplishments.

On March 3, 1999, we organized a historic event in San Francisco. The Commission sponsored the first ever Youth Budget Hearing. This allowed young people from throughout San Francisco to voice their opinions on the city's distribution of funds. The Youth Commission strongly believes in giving youth an opportunity to voice their opinions, concerns and ideas to city officials. Therefore, we organized this hearing to prove to city government that young people are able to organize, unite and have our voice be heard.

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Questioning Youth Task Force is an example of young people holding positions of leadership and influence to advocate for youth. The task force built relationships and worked closely with city departments to implement recommendations to improve the quality of life for LGBTQQ youth. Due to their hard work, the Board of Supervisors passed legislation to require that city contractors and city agencies who work closely with youth undergo sensitivity training. The Youth Commission not only advocates for youth programs for all young people, but also is aware of the diversity of our city.

These are some of the many accomplishments that the Youth Commission fulfilled. I am excited to have been part of a fantastic group of Commissioners. I believe the Youth Commission is on the right track and will continue to fulfill our duties as representatives of children and youth in our city government.

Francisco J. Castillo
Chair, San Francisco Youth Commission (1998-99)

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF THE YOUTH COMMISSION

Dear Youth Advocate,

The San Francisco Youth Commission has and will continue to ensure that youth participate in decision-making in city government. Not only does the Youth Commission foster and develop the potential of youth but it also uses this talent and energy to impact public policy so youth voices are heard. In addition to influencing policy, the Youth Commission empowers young people and taps their potential.

In this Annual Report, you will learn about the accomplishments of the Youth Commission this past year. Our two youth-led Task Forces prove once again that young people are a remarkable force for much needed social change. Youth Initiated Projects, a youth philanthropy program, has become tremendously popular and is providing funds and other support for youth-driven ideas to improve our communities. The Youth Budget Hearing, Peace & Safety Youth Advocacy Day and the Youth Empowerment Conference were ways to connect youth to key decision makers and get youth voice heard.

The Youth Commission has come a long way since its inception three years ago. The Youth Commissioners of the 1999/2000 term continue the strong tradition of advocating for youth and for community change. It has been my privilege to work with inspirational young people with extraordinary vision and talent. It has been a wonderful year with the Youth Commission and I look forward to seeing the Youth Commission grow.

On behalf of the Youth Commission, I would like to thank its many extraordinary supporters. Beginning its fourth year, the Youth Commission looks forward to strengthening existing relationships and forging new ones.