Applications open for 2026 - 2027 Chief’s Youth Advisory Council

The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) is offering a unique service opportunity to Colorado Springs high school-age students interested in joining the Chief's Youth Advisory Council for the current school year. The council allows Colorado Springs' young people the opportunity to discuss their thoughts and concerns directly with the Chief of Police, Adrian Vasquez. The council will also participate in immersive, hands-on learning experiences and discussions with various CSPD divisions and units during meetings. The council is comprised of high school students who meet with Chief Vasquez monthly for 2 hours, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, on the third Wednesday of each month during the school year.

These meetings are based on open dialogue, allowing Chief Vasquez to hear directly from teens from across the city about their views on the role of CSPD in keeping our city safe. Chief Vasquez will answer questions and share his perspective with the council on the responsibilities of law enforcement in protecting the constitutional rights of all community members.

Applications are now open on the CSPD website's Community Outreach page (https://coloradosprings.gov/chiefs-youth-advisory-council). They are open to all high school-age youth in our community who are enrolled in public school, charter school, online school, alternative school, home school, or private school education programs. Students under the age of 18 must have permission from a parent or legal guardian.

There will be an informational meeting for interested students and parents/guardians on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Police Operations Center, located at 705 S. Nevada Avenue. Applications are due Monday, August 31, 2026, and students chosen for the council will be notified on Friday, September 4, 2026.

In 2026, 13 students graduated from the council, earning a personalized letter of recommendation from Chief Vasquez. Serving on the council allows these students to develop their leadership skills by participating in a council setting and being a voice representing themselves, their friends, their school, and their community from their perspective.

Interviews with PIO are available on request. Interviews with a student from last year's council can be scheduled after their school day and may not be available for a day turn. Media is invited to attend the public interest meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 6 PM, at the POC.