Applications Available for the Governor's Youth Advisory Council

04:03PM / Wednesday, September 20, 2023Print Story | Email Story

BOSTON — Governor Maura T. Healey signed Executive Order #617 establishing the Governor's Youth Advisory Council to advise the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and the entire administration on issues impacting Massachusetts, such as civic engagement, education, the environment, housing, and youth violence.

Applications to join the Youth Advisory Council will be available through Oct. 14 for Massachusetts residents aged 16-21.

"I've been so inspired by the young people I've met who have been making their voices heard and demanding more from their leaders on the most pressing issues facing Massachusetts. They deserve a seat at the table," said Governor Healey. "Young people are uniquely positioned to advise us on policies related to climate, education, mental health, gun violence and more – because they've grown up confronting these issues and it's their futures that will be most impacted by the decisions we make today. I encourage young people across Massachusetts to apply for the council and help us meet the moment to make Massachusetts more affordable, competitive and equitable for all."

The Council will include at least one from each county. They will be appointed to two-year terms and will meet with Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll quarterly.

"The innovation and creativity of our Massachusetts youth are unmatched," said Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler. "They're all eager to be involved in civic engagement and have a hand at creating policies that will impact them and their peers. I am excited to work with and support this council to amplify the perspectives of our students and to conquer what matters most."

Applications are due by 11:59 PM on October 14, 2023. For more information visit mass.gov/youthcouncil.

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New Camp Is Safe Place for Children Suffering Loss to Addiction

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
06:26AM / Saturday, December 27, 2025

Last year's Happy Campers courtesy of Max Tabakin.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A new camp is offering a safe place for children who have lost a parent or guardian to addiction.

Director Gayle Saks founded the nonprofit "Camp Happy Place" last year. The first camp was held in June with 14 children.

Saks is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor who works at the Brien Center. One of her final projects when studying was how to involve youth, and a camp came to mind. Camp had been her "happy place" growing up, and it became her dream to open her own.

"I keep a bucket list in my wallet, and it's right on here on this list, and I cross off things that I've accomplished," she said. "But it is the one thing on here that I knew I had to do."

The overnight co-ed camp is held at a summer camp in Winsted, Conn., where Saks spent her summers as a child. It is four nights and five days and completely free. Transportation is included as are many of the items needed for camping. The camp takes up to 30 children.

"I really don't think there's any place that exists specifically for this population. I think it's important to know, we've said this, but that it is not a therapeutic camp," Saks said.

She said the focus is on fun for the children, though they are able to talk to any of the volunteer and trained staff. The staff all have experience in social work, addiction and counseling, and working with children.

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