Are you a middle or high school student in Suffolk?

Are you tired of hearing about the city’s same problems?

Do you want to try and think of some solutions?

Well, then, the city wants to hear from you.

The Suffolk Office on Youth is currently accepting applications from the city’s middle and high schoolers to be part of the Suffolk Youth Advisory Council.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for youth to get involved at an early age and have their voices heard and have their opinions listened to,” said Debbie George, spokeswoman for the city. “They can actually be able to make a difference in what’s going on in the city.”

The council was created last year in an effort to give the youth of the city a voice in addressing the issues that matter to them.

Last year, the council held the first Youth Symposium, where students were able to identify the top needs in the community and brainstorm ways they can make a difference.

Additionally, the council members meet twice a month, are present at community events and civic engagements, advise City Council on current youth safety issues and help to make communications between youth and law enforcement officers better in Suffolk.

Members will serve terms based on active membership, community service, and must maintain a grade point average of at least 2.0, according to a city press release.

Program applications are now available and can be received up at East Suffolk Recreation Center, located at 138 S. 6th Street.

The deadline for application submittal is Sept. 19.

For more information, call 757-514-4503 or email jbranham@city.suffolk.va.us.