I am leaving this program with a new outlook on what it will take to make a difference in the waste industry. The Youth Council has shown me the amount of work and dedication needed to make a change, and I will keep that with me as I continue to pursue a sustainability-focused career.

 For me being able to continuously learn and become more environmentally self-aware has been the most fulfilling thing about being in the Youth Council. This experience has shown me a completely different world and allowed me to expose others to it as well. 

The most fulfilling part of being in this Youth Council is being able to have an outlet to express my passion towards moving towards a sustainable future, making connections with people who also share this same sentiment, and being able to feel hopeful to make a change in my community and beyond.

I will never forget the insider knowledge and respect I’ve developed about the recycling industry as well as the experience of actively working to make a positive change with those who care.

One of the best things about being on the youth council was definitely the staff. Everyone who worked at Salinas Valley Recycles. They all just had a positive attitude and they just made it a fun experience to have.