4-H Teen Appointed to State
Legislative Youth Advisory Council
By Betsy Fradd, WSU Extension 4-H
After winning the election as Student Body President by five votes Jessica Ubachs, then nine years old, promised her opponent she could be her “helper” as she carried out her duties at Grantham Elementary school in Clarkston. Inclusion is still key to Jessica as she works with 21 other teens appointed by Lt. Governor Brad Owen to the Washington State Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC). After attending the first meeting of her two-year term, Jessica is eager to offer her opinion on issues ranging from civic involvement, Internet safety, election reform, and education.
“I want to be a strong voice for the youth of Eastern Washington,” said Jessica, 18, who will focus on both the ninth and 40th legislative districts. “I’ll be working with my peers to first understand the issues critical to our state’s young people and then meet with legislators to encourage them to vote on particular legislation.”
During the six meetings this year in Olympia Jessica and other LYAC members will hear testimony from state officials and get input from others about issues relevant to youth. The teen leaders will also attend committee hearings and will have opportunities to testify and express their views.
Getting involved comes easily to Jessica who has been active in 4-H since Kindergarten.
“4-H allowed me to develop my leadership skills and gave me many opportunities to use them,” said Jessica who also serves on the 4-H State Advisory Board and Core Committee. “It was through 4-H and the Know Your Government conferences that I was introduced to state government. Politics and community involvement quickly became a passion of mine.”
Jessica spends time in her own community by participating on the Asotin County Youth Commission. Now serving her sixth year, she has worked with county commissioners, planned local events, and helped sponsor a drug and alcohol awareness program.
Being involved at the state level with LYAC is giving Jessica further opportunities to engage and meet youth across the state who want to shape policy and make a difference. Running for office is definitely on her mind. Serving locally, statewide or nationally are all possibilities.
“Being part of change is gratifying,” said Jessica. “By being focused on youth today we will be a stronger generation tomorrow.”
For more information on the Legislative Youth Advisory Council visit lyac.wa.gov