Foundation’s Youth Council Launches Strategic Visits

The Watertown Area Community Foundation’s Youth Council convened in late October, partaking in its first nonprofit visit of its 24th year of youth-led philanthropy. Comprised of six high school students, three seniors, and three juniors, the Youth Council empowers young people to explore local needs, connect with nonprofit leaders, and make real decisions that shape the future of Watertown.

Next year marks a significant milestone: 25 years since the Youth Council’s founding in 2001. Since then, the group has awarded more than $218,000 to youth-serving organizations throughout the community, funding impactful solutions, supporting youth voices, and fostering a spirit of service.

The 2025–2026 Youth Council members include seniors Siri Bach, Leila Byer, and Whitney Martinsen, and juniors Abby Kruger, Kate McElroy, and Owen Muller. Senior Leila Byer serves as the Youth Council’s 2025–2026 Chairperson.

The Youth Council first met in September to compile the annual Youth Perspective Needs Assessment. This guides the Youth Council’s priorities and helps to identify challenges they wish to tackle on behalf of their peers. As a result, members have planned strategic visits to area nonprofits to better understand how those needs are being met locally and how the Youth Council can provide support.

Their first site visit was to East Central CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), an organization that recruits and trains volunteers to advocate for children navigating the foster care system. The experience resonated deeply with the Youth Council members:

“It was eye-opening to learn about what youth in our community are facing,” said senior Whitney Martinsen, “but at the same time, beautiful to see the compassion CASA volunteers have to fight for them.”

“I was amazed by the small details each volunteer puts into every case,” shared Leila Byer. “I also realized how impactful even small donations, like a few nice outfits, can be for kids in difficult situations.”

Senior Siri Bach added, “Learning more about CASA was an incredible opportunity. Hearing from staff and understanding both the services they provide and the impact they have on children in foster care really opened my eyes. I encourage everyone to learn more about this amazing nonprofit.”

The Youth Council remains an example of what’s possible when young people lead with curiosity, empathy, and a drive to make a difference. With each visit and grant, they carry forward the legacy of leadership that began in 2001—reminding us that the future of Watertown is already stepping up.