Applications open for 2018-2019 SPARK Boston Council

Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced applications for the 2018-2019 SPARK Boston Council are now available. The SPARK Boston Council is a group of volunteers charged with leading the City's efforts to engage Boston's young adult population.

"We're proud to have the highest percent of young adults out of any major city in the country," said Mayor Walsh. "The SPARK Boston Council gives us an opportunity to challenge young adults to think big and become neighborhood leaders. This population is diverse, well-educated and full of ideas that will help us grow the city in a sustainable and positive way."  

Under the direction of the SPARK Boston Director, the 2018-2019 Council will spend the year using its talent and innovation to identify ways in which Boston can grow as an inviting, connected, culturally rich and sustainable place for young adults. Projects may include programming and projects on housing policy, economic development, equal pay, public art and neighborhood engagement.  Throughout the SPARK Boston Council Term, members also hear from key members of the Mayor's staff as well as leaders within City Hall.

"The SPARK Boston Council has always been defined by civically engaged, energetic Boston residents who are passionate about their future and our city," said Amy Mahler, Director of SPARK Boston. "Council members serve a multitude of roles such as being ambassadors of City programs, participating in focus groups for City staff, or convening policy conversations and neighborhood celebrations. It's a great way to be an active participant in Boston's future as well as your own."

The 2017-2018 SPARK Boston Council is comprised of 38 Boston residents, who live in 20 different neighborhoods across Boston. This group includes entrepreneurs, designers, social workers, restaurant professionals, undergraduate and graduate students, community organizers, veterans and representatives from many other industries across the public and private sectors. Approximately a third of the Council are native Bostonians, while others grew up as far away as France, Cape Verde, India and Spain.

Last year, the SPARK Boston program received 180 applications for the Council, showing a robust interest for involvement and engagement. Projects for this Council cohort have included the launch of the neighborhood tour series, the continuation of the Chief Chat policy talk series, and the Millennial Homeownership Open House, a collaboration with the Boston Home Center to bring educational materials, lenders, and realtors to millennials.

"SPARK Boston is an opportunity to give back to my community, develop professionally and expand my network," said Emily Murphy of the 2017-2018 SPARK Boston Council. "I'd had the chance to interact with peers and professionals from all walks of life, and have truly learned about the city of Boston, community involvement, and myself."

"SPARK has given me the opportunity to collaborate with other millennials who share my values in Boston," said Gabrielle Sims of the 2017-2018 SPARK Boston Council. "Not only have I planned great events with others on the SPARK Council, but I have learned about new places in Boston and now have a newfound appreciation for the city!"

Applicants must be Boston residents between the ages of 20 to 34 to apply for the Council. Applications for the Council can be found here and the submission deadline is July 16th, 2018. For more information, visit the SPARKBoston Program.

About SPARK Boston

Boston is home to a large and diverse millennial population. SPARK Boston (formerly ONEin3) is a City of Boston initiative that aims to empower the millennial generation to play a greater role in planning for the future of our city.