Volunteers Sought to Serve on Advisory Committee for Duarte Youth and Family Master Plan Effort

The City of Duarte is seeking community volunteers to serve on an advisory committee to guide the development of a Youth and Family Master Plan. Duarte is initiating the process to enhance the community’s programs, services and quality of life for youth and families.

The Advisory Committee will determine a vision statement and goals, develop and conduct a youth and community participation process, develop an understanding of the issues impacting youth and families, and review existing services. The committee will ultimately develop a measurable Action Plan to guide the City of Duarte, the Duarte Unified School District, community organizations, and others over the next five to ten years regarding youth and family programs, services, and facilities.

It is anticipated that the Youth and Family Master Plan Advisory Committee will be made up of approximately 15 to 20 members in order to accomplish its charge. Other community volunteers will assist with specific work tasks developed by the advisory committee.

Individuals with expertise or experience in youth and family issues, and individuals who represent youth and family interests from multiple perspectives are encouraged to apply to serve on the advisory committee. The advisory committee is expected to represent the full richness of Duarte’s diversity and age groups, including youth. The goal Is to accept advisory committee members who represent one or more of the following categories: Private and public education, child development professionals, housing, faith based community, youth sports, non-English speaking, mental health, medical health, fitness and well-being, parents and guardians, non-profit organizations, technology, differently-abled, law enforcement, public transportation, and business community.

“Blending many community perspectives will lead to a dynamic plan that identifies our present and future needs, and solutions that promote Duarte’s youth and families,” said Mayor John Fasana.

Duarte residency is not a prerequisite for membership, but all applicants should have a demonstrated interest in the greater Duarte community.

Advisory Committee applications are available at Duarte City Hall, 1600 Huntington Dr. Applications must be returned to Duarte City Hall by 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24.

Youth and Family Master Planning is increasingly used by cities throughout the nation to address the needs of youth and families. The National League of Cities, the California League of Cities, the California School Boards Association, and the California Cities, Counties and Schools Partnership have all strongly encouraged their members to engage in youth master planning. Earlier this year, the Duarte City Council approved $28,000 funding in the 2009-10 city budget to support the endeavor.

For additional information, interested persons can contact Director of Parks & Recreation, Donna Georgino at (626) 357-7931 or via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .