Youth Leadership & Community Care
Women’s Advisory Council for Youth at Ophelia’s Place
Youth voices are paramount in caring for the communities in which we live, now and in the future.
To honor, celebrate, and support future leaders who want to make a difference in their communities, Ophelia’s Place is proud to host WACY, or the Women’s Advisory Council for Youth. The girls’ leadership group focuses on community service, activism, and equality.
It’s goals and activities are entirely driven by youth ages 10-18 – ranging from raising awareness about current issues, pursing community outreach efforts, or organizing fundraising activities.
In the past, WACY completed community service projects, including:
Menstrual hygiene drives for community shelters and nonprofits
An original production - The Training Bra Monologues - that celebrated and shared themes of young women exploring identity and girlhood
Recorded interviews about Inspiring Women in Lane and Linn counties
Ophelia’s Place space updates to appeal to older teens
Representing teen voices from Ophelia’s Place at community and volunteer events
And professional development opportunities like learning how to set goals and promote events
WACY is a great way to earn high school volunteer hours, experience to include in college and job applications, and developing real-world practice in sharing your voice and supporting the community.
In 2020, WACY interviewed a series of women in their communities on camera who inspired them. The result was a YouTube playlist of those Inspiring Women. Check out the full list of interviews.
How Can You Get Involved?
WACY is for any girl-identified youth ages 10-18 who have an interest in working with peers to make difference in their community. Currently, WACY is offered in-person at the Ophelia’s Place Eugene site, and meets weekly - 4:30 on Wednesdays.
Registration isn’t required, but a one-time orientation will be scheduled after attending your first meeting. A commitment for a full school year is recommended.
Empowered girls change their world, and WACY is central in doing just that.