The Friends of the Hastings Youth Council was founded to insure that the vital programs and indispensable services provided through the Hastings Youth Council, are appropriately funded and supported.

The Friends believe that community-based programming is a high impact, cost effective way to support a healthy, diverse and vibrant village. Their fundraising is accomplished with an annual appeal and an annual community event.

The Hastings Youth Council is a committee of the village government. Council volunteers are appointed by the Village Board of Trustees and the Mayor to oversee and collaborate with the Youth Advocate, Youth Services Director, Youth Employment Services, and WAY (Working Alliance for Youth) Coalition. The Hastings Youth Council also provides and supervises its own programming for children and teens in the community.

Support and Resources are provided by both professional staff and volunteers, who serve in many capacities. The support and resources are provided through the community outreach programs, drug prevention classes in our schools, counseling for youth and families, volunteer and job opportunities and a safe haven recreational and supportive space, in the community center, known as YAP (Youth Advocate Program), after school and on Saturdays, for children of all ages.