About the Youth Commission

The Youth Commission was established by the City of Pittsburgh (Ord. No. 24-2025, § 176A.01 – § 176A.09 - 2025) to ensure that youth voices are represented in city government. The group serves as an advisory body to the Mayor and the members of City Council, providing input on issues that impact young people, including education, public safety, and workforce development.

Under Mayor Gainey, the revised Youth Commission will aim to modernize and strengthen youth engagement in civic affairs, establish formal channels for youth voices in policy-making, and ensure representation from diverse and historically marginalized communities. These revisions were informed by design sessions coordinated by youth leaders and reflect a shift towards a more inclusive and supportive structure for young residents between the ages of 14–30.

To review the 2024 Youth Commission Report, go to the "document library" section on this page

Outcomes

By involving them in discussions and activities, young people gain a sense of empowerment and realize their ability to create positive change.

Young people provide valuable perspectives from our target demographic to inform decisions by city leaders.

Engaging young people in community development initiatives can lead to stronger and more resilient communities.

Youth-led projects and programs can address community issues and contribute to building a sense of belonging and pride among residents.

Through advocacy and awareness campaigns, the Youth Commission will influence local policies and ensure the voices and concerns of young people are taken into account when shaping laws and regulations.