Introducing AIM’s New Youth Council!

AIM is excited to announce the launch of our new Youth Council! AIM is committed to centering the voices of Neurodivergent and Disabled youth. This program will engage the wisdom and experience of young people who will help shape AIM’s programs, events, and community culture. All youth ages 16-24 who identify as Neurodivergent or Disabled are invited to apply, including: 

  • Current and past AIM participants, volunteers, interns, and staff 

  • Individuals from the community who have not yet participated in AIM programs

During Youth Council meetings, members will practice leadership and advocacy skills, advise the organization on our programming, and identify a project to work on as a group (i.e. planning an event, creating a resource, implementing an initiative that will benefit the community).

Members will be paid a stipend of $50 per meeting hour.

Meeting Schedule: 

Anticipated frequency is once per month between September 2026 and June 2027. Meetings will be scheduled after applicants have been selected, based on applicant and facilitator availability. 

Application Instructions: 

If you are interested in participating in AIM’s Youth Council, please use one of the links below to apply. You may respond to application questions in writing, audio, video, or artwork. Completed applications can be sent to Laina at laina.bentley@aim-seattle.org.

Complete Online Application Form

Participation Expectations: 

During Youth Council meetings, Council Members are expected to:

  • Stay safely in the space without eloping 

  • Not engage in behavior that harms self or others

  • Be able to communicate opinions and ideas (independently or with support) in some way (speech, AAC, writing, gestures, etc.)

  • Be able and willing to participate in discussions and decisions

  • Attend at least 80% of scheduled council meetings (meetings are anticipated to take place September 2026 through June 2027)

Download Application PDF