Editor's Note: This story was originally published in the November edition of InBuckeye Magazine.
By Carrie K. Snider
Today’s local teens may just be tomorrow’s leaders — and the newest group of Buckeye Youth Council members is already proving it.
This driven group of young people has hit the ground running, learning valuable skills they’ll carry for life. Together, they attend meetings, volunteer at community events and work side by side to help shape Buckeye’s future.
The BYC includes 19 students from schools across the city, united by a mission to empower young leaders and develop their character, communication and community spirit. Here’s what six members had to say about their experiences so far.
Alexa Marcado Garay
Q: Why did you join the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: I joined the Buckeye Youth Council because my friends were part of it and told me about all the things they got to do. I saw pictures of them in Washington, D.C., and at different conferences. After reading more about it, I thought, That sounds pretty cool.
Q: What have you gained so far in the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: One of the biggest things I’ve gained is teamwork. Being on the council means working with other members and peers in Buckeye, so collaborating and finding strategies to improve the community has really strengthened that skill. I’ve also improved my communication and organization skills.
Q: Why is it important for people to get involved in the community?
A: Because you’re helping shape how the city works. You’re not only helping yourself, but you’re also helping others — especially those who don’t have as many opportunities. I think it’s really great for people to get involved, come together and make a difference as a community.
- What makes a good leader?
A: A good leader is a good listener and someone who takes initiative. As secretary of the council, I’m often in the background, but it’s my job to keep track of everything that’s discussed. If I just write things down without following through, nothing gets done and the community doesn’t improve. It’s about motivating each other to step up, because everyone on the council shares the same goal of giving back. Having a clear, step-by-step plan is really important so we can make a real impact on the community.
Q: How can people in Buckeye get more involved?
A: Follow the Buckeye Youth Council on Instagram, as well as the City of Buckeye and Buckeye Events pages. We post updates and surveys to get feedback on what the community needs. With that input, I think we can really make a positive impact on Buckeye.
Thomas Duarte
Q: Why did you join the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: I’ve always been interested in Buckeye. When you look at a lot of communities in Arizona, they don’t really have a central hub of activity, which makes it hard for people to connect. I thought, I can help change that. So, I decided to get involved and do my part.
Q: Why is it important for people to get involved in the community?
A: Because communities depend on the input and experiences of the people who live in them. A community isn’t just a neighborhood full of houses, it’s a place with its own traditions and culture. That’s what truly makes a community a community.
- What makes a good leader?
A: A good leader has a clear goal or mission — something that truly makes a difference, like finding new ways to design a city that helps the fire department respond faster. Leadership also takes assertiveness, because people will always have opinions or push back. It’s important to stay confident and keep pushing for your vision, even when it’s challenging.
Q: What makes Buckeye unique?
A: The speed at which Buckeye is growing is incredible. It feels like there’s nonstop development — new houses, new stores, everywhere you look. I’ve watched the area transform from mostly farmland to a landscape filled with warehouses and neighborhoods.
Q: How can people in Buckeye get more involved?
A: Let people in Buckeye know when you’re going to an event, or tag friends and the city when you post about it. One of the biggest things I’ve noticed is that most people just don’t know what’s happening in other parts of Buckeye — it’s such a big city that events in one area often go unnoticed in another.
Lena Erickson
Q: Why did you join the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: I love how many opportunities Buckeye offers for its teenagers. When I was looking through them, I came across the Buckeye Youth Council and thought it would be an amazing way to help all the new people moving here. I wanted to make sure their voices are heard and that there are events and activities for them to enjoy.
Q: What have you gained so far in the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: So far, it’s been about making great connections. At the first orientation meeting, I started talking to people, and everyone was so talented. There were artists, future lawyers, politicians and students interested in veterinary medicine. You learn so much just by talking to people. It gives you a better sense of who Buckeye is, not just what Buckeye is.
Q: Why is it important for people to get involved in the community?
A: When you get connected with your community, you gain a stronger sense of self. You start to learn who your neighbors are and think about how you can help each other. You also discover new opportunities. For example, the Buckeye Library has so many art programs. I was looking through them and thought, Oh my goodness, I didn’t even know these existed.
Q: What makes a good leader?
A: I think it’s important not to go into leadership with the mindset of wanting control or recognition. It should be about asking how you can support and amplify others. You’re only as strong as your weakest link, and everyone should work together as equals.
Q: What makes Buckeye unique?
A: Buckeye is a huge community, but it still manages to keep that perfect small-town feel. It’s amazing. When you go to places like Verrado or Monroe, they’re both part of Buckeye but feel very distinct. Yet somehow, everyone still seems to know everyone.
Q: How can people in Buckeye get more involved?
A: Learning about all the opportunities has been eye-opening. There’s so much in Buckeye that flies under the radar, from arts programs and the Buckeye Youth Council to opportunities through the fire and police departments that even teens can join. It’s really about getting out there and getting involved. The farmers markets are starting back up, too.
Lamarion Buie
Q: Why did you join the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: To make a difference. Innovation and diversity are both important, and it’s about making sure our voices are heard. That’s what drew me to the Buckeye Youth Council. I thought this would be a great opportunity to meet new people and be part of something meaningful.
Q: What have you gained so far in the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: Leadership and teamwork have been the biggest takeaways for me. After becoming vice chair, I’ve gained a lot of leadership experience. When I first joined, I told myself, let’s see what I can build here. And we’re just getting started.
Q: Why is it important for people to get involved in the community?
A: Life is about creating opportunities for yourself, and getting involved is how you do that. It’s about making your voice heard and stepping outside your usual circle. I can’t wait to see how things keep changing. Getting involved is such a great experience, especially because you meet so many new people.
Q: What makes a good leader?
A: Being a good leader means actively listening, communicating well and supporting your team. It also means staying involved and continuing to try new things, even when they’re outside your comfort zone.
Q: What makes Buckeye unique?
A: Everything. I love Buckeye. It’s unique in so many ways. The farmers work hard, the mayor does a great job, and the people here really see the good in our city. That’s what makes Buckeye special.
Q: How can people in Buckeye get more involved?
A: Reaching out and going to more events makes a big difference. Visit the recreation center and get involved. When you do, trust me, you’ll have some of the most fun you’ve ever had.
Raelynn Miller
Q: Why did you join the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: I heard it would be a great opportunity to build my communication skills. I wanted to learn how to connect with people, become a stronger leader, and be more involved in the community I’ve been part of my whole life.
Q: What have you gained so far in the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: It helps you learn how to talk with people, like at volunteer events. You meet all kinds of people and learn how to communicate with peers, adults, and younger kids. It teaches you how to navigate different conversations, and that really builds the sense of leadership the program promotes.
Q: Why is it important for people to get involved in the community?
A: Humans are social by nature, and building community strengthens that bond. It’s how we connect. In today’s world, with so much technology, things can feel isolating. Getting back out there, reconnecting with others in a modern way, and helping the people around you is exactly why it’s important to get involved.
Q: How can people in Buckeye get more involved?
A: There are always big events and council meetings to attend, but there’s also a smaller, everyday way to get involved. It’s about helping the people around you. Community can exist on that personal level, helping someone with their groceries, offering to help them cross the street, or even just saying hi or giving a compliment. That’s how you build the sense of community we were talking about earlier.
Savanna Sanchez
Q: Why did you join the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: I’ve noticed that being a leader requires strong communication skills. That’s something I’ve realized I need to keep improving, and I think a lot of young people do too. Building that skill can really benefit everyone.
Q: What have you gained so far in the Buckeye Youth Council?
A: I think I could really focus on improving my communication skills and learning more about how serving the community actually works. We visit local businesses and the fire department, and I’ve never really thought about how they operate on the inside. Seeing things behind the scenes is amazing. I love learning, and I know I’ll learn a lot from this experience.
Q: Why is it important for people to get involved in the community?
A: If everyone helps out just a little, whether it’s picking up trash or volunteering, it makes a big difference. It helps the whole community.
Q: What makes a good leader?
A: It’s important to not only put yourself out there and network with others, but also to listen. Listening is a huge part of being effective and making real connections.
Q: What makes Buckeye unique?
A: The people. Everyone here is so friendly. It used to feel like a small town where everyone knew each other, and even though we’re growing, I think we’re moving in the right direction with all the development and community involvement. I really love it here.
Q: How can people in Buckeye get more involved?
A: Honestly, just start by showing up to local events. Read the news and check city updates to see what’s coming up. You can also help by donating. Buckeye has a few food shelters that we partner with through the Buckeye Youth Council for food drives and other efforts, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.
