Are you concerned about having better parks? How about the streets in your community? Have you ever wondered why the mall is where it is? Have you ever thought about why your school is located where it is? Do you wish someone would do something to make life better for you, your family, or your community?
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is looking for high school students to learn about our region while interacting with their peers from other counties in northeastern Illinois. CMAP is interested in the ideas about how to make the region a better place to live, go to school, work, and play. Please apply to be part of Future Leaders in Planning!
Future Leaders in Planning (FLIP) is a leadership development opportunity where students can contribute to a better future for our region. Participants in this new program will learn more about the northeastern region and share their thoughts with other teens from Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties. Participants will also meet and interact with selected regional leaders who make key planning decisions in our communities.
For more information, please take a look at the information materials.
To receive periodic updates on FLIP, including opportunities for involvement, sign up for the listserv.
To meet other youth in the region and blog about issues affecting your community, visit the myspace page.
To be eligible, students must:
- Be a freshman or sophomore during the 2007-2008 school year (public or private high schools welcome);
- Reside in one of the 7 counties in the Northeastern Illinois region (Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, or Will); and
- Possess a desire and interest to learn more about the region and our communities.
To apply to the FLIP program, follow the steps listed below:
- Complete the Student Application Form,
- Complete the Essay (be sure to include your name on the essay!),
- Have one (1) teacher, counselor, mentor or community leader complete a Reference Form (be sure to write your name in the space indicated on the form before giving them to your reference!)
Mail completed application and essay to:
Future Leaders in Planning (FLIP)
Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP)
233 South Wacker Drive, Suite 800
Chicago, Illinois 60606
Applications can also be sent electronically to Diana Torres at dtorres@cmap.illinois.gov.
A selection committee composed of CMAP staff will review the applications. Consideration is given to students who demonstrate a combination of factors including level of interest, critical thinking skills and community involvement. In addition, each student’s application essay and reference letter will contribute to final decisions. Because of the program’s mission, we strive to have a diverse group of students.
All applicants will be notified of final decisions on Monday, June 9th, 2008.