Who We Are and Why Our Voice Count

The First Congressional Youth Cabinet was created in 2008 by Congressman John B. Larson. It is comprised of two students from each high school within Connecticut's First Congressional District. According to Congressman Larson, the youth voice provides a unique and valuable perspective on shaping American policy. He has made the term "youth engagement" a meaningful and genuine action. The Youth Cabinet is a concrete demonstration of his strong commitment to the health and wellbeing of children, youth, and families in the First District and across the nation.

At no point in American history is youth engagement more critical than now; and new technology provides youth with powerful new tools for positive action. No one can deny that we live in a global and technologically advanced world – a world in which people can connect and do business from anywhere on the planet in literally an instant. This creates an exciting opportunity for today's youth, who have access to technologies that were unimaginable a generation ago. Technological changes over the past few decades have affected almost everything that our parents, grandparents and ancestors have known in their homes, lives, and work places.

We believe American youth have not been stunted by technology, but rather are the face of how technological change is enriching our lives. Youth are the hosts of a new potential that provides Americans with increased ability to shape our nation's path and role in the leadership of a new world. Youth have unprecedented access to a vast network of peers. Youth can communicate with one another in real time and can be valuable in strengthening the ties that bind us regardless of how government sees their role. Today's youth are changing how the youth of the future will live.

In many ways, today's youth are finding themselves on the edge of a new frontier. In this new frontier our nation must remain strong and show the world the strength of its democratic government. Youth involvement is the catalyst to a healthy and strong democracy and we believe the Youth Cabinet can help youth realize their incredible potential. All members of the Congressional Youth Cabinet are nominated by their schools to serve. If you would like more information on this process, please contact Kimberly Harris on my staff at (860) 278-8888.

How to Join

Congressman Larson's Youth Cabinet consists of two high schools students from every high school in Connecticut's First Congressional District.

How Seats are Filled

The office of Congressman Larson sends a letter to the Superintendent of a school system whenever a new CYC member is needed to fill a vacancy when a student has finished their term. Please note that all students, regardless of where they are at in their lives, are considered CYC members for life. We emphasize that frequently and in fact, the students who have finished their terms and who may be in out of state colleges, come to CYC meetings when they are in town. In this way the Congressman maintains a connection with each member.

Most often, we find that Superintendents leave the selection of students to the principals or guidance counselors in each respective high school. The decision on how to fill the seat is left entirely up to the discretion of the school system.

Youth Cabinet Student Selection

Because we believe that the CYC must fully represent all youth of the First District, we also ask for a selection of students who are involved in non-traditional school programs, such as those working toward their GED and/or engaged in a job training program.

CYC members applying to college(s) and would like a recommendation letter from Congressman John Larson are encouraged to reach out to Kimberly Harris @ 860-278-8888 or via email kimberly.harris@mail.house.gov. The colleges/university name, location, contact information and Point of Contact for the Admissions Office along with the students major of interest is needed. Requests for Recommendation letters need to be submitted 1 month prior to CYC members applying to their prospective schools.