NLYC Newsletter: March 2025

As we wrap up March, we’re reflecting on an incredible month filled with exciting events and meaningful initiatives. From hosting engaging activities like a teen-hour at the city’s mini glow golf event to working on new ways to support our peers, we’re always looking for ways to make a difference. Being part of the Youth Council isn’t just about leadership—it’s about teamwork, creativity, and balancing our passions, whether in academics, the arts, athletics, or beyond. With spring in full swing, we’re looking forward to even more opportunities to connect, grow, and continue making a positive impact!

Upcoming Events

Pickleball Tournament

The NLYC invites all high school students to participate in a friendly pickleball tournament on April 11. We aim to bring people together for some friendly competition and fun! This event is a fantastic opportunity for kids to meet new friends, showcase their skills, and enjoy a fast-growing sport that anyone can play. Join us for a fun experience and help us build a stronger, more connected community.

The tournament will take place at the Penn Meadows Park Tennis & Pickleball Courts. Admission is $5 per person and will be played as a 2v2, double elimination tournament. You must fill out the survey to register.

Citywide Cleanup

Join the NLYC Citywide Cleanup on April 5th at the Bike Trail & Muddy Creek Clean-Up and help make a real difference in our community! Litter and pollution don’t just harm the environment—they impact our neighborhoods, parks, and local wildlife. By coming together to clean up our city, we can create a healthier, more beautiful space for everyone. Volunteer hours are eligible for Silver Cord.
Join in by meeting at the North Liberty Community Center north parking lot at 9 a.m.

Flag Football Tournament

The NLYC invites all middle school students to participate in a friendly flag football tournament that will take place in May (date TBD). This event is a great chance to team up with friends, enjoy some friendly competition, and show off your skills on the field. Come be a part of a day filled with energy, teamwork, and community spirit!

The tournament will take place at the Liberty High School Football Field. Admission is $5 per person and will be played with 7 people per team. You must fill out the survey to register.

STEMpact: Youth to Youth

STEMpact: Youth to Youth is a high school mentorship program. Our goal is to help younger students explore exciting STEM topics and spark their curiosity. By connecting high school mentors with the youth, we can inspire the next generation of innovators while fostering learning, creativity, and confidence. Mentorship sessions will take place once a month. All sessions will be led by high school students and targeted toward elementary or middle school students.

The third session’s topic covered biology. The next session is on math and will take place on April 26th from 2:00PM to 3:00PM at the North Liberty Library.You must fill out the survey to register.     

Past Events

Glow Mini Golf

Recently, the city of North Liberty hosted a three-day Glow Mini Golf as part of the City Slate. The Youth Council hosted a teen-only hour for highschoolers. We provided a free taco bar (sponsored by Andale) for all of the attendees. Overall, the event was a blast and we are excited to host more events like this one in the future!

Mental Health Corner

Social media is a powerful tool for communication and self-expression, but excessive use can take a toll on mental health. Constant exposure to curated content often leads to unhealthy comparisons, low self-esteem, and anxiety. The pressure to stay connected can contribute to digital fatigue, stress, and sleep disturbances. While social media can be a source of positivity, its overuse can lead to feelings of inadequacy and isolation.

To maintain a healthier balance, individuals can adopt strategies to protect their well-being. Setting screen time limits and taking digital detoxes allow for a break from online pressures and encourage more meaningful engagement. Curating a positive feed by following uplifting and inspiring content can improve mental outlook, while unfollowing harmful influences can reduce stress. Prioritizing real-life interactions and making time for face-to-face connections help combat loneliness and foster deeper relationships. Additionally, practicing mindfulness—such as recognizing emotional triggers and stepping away when needed—can prevent social media from negatively affecting mental health.

By using social media intentionally and setting boundaries, individuals can enjoy its benefits while maintaining their emotional well-being. Finding balance ensures that social media remains a positive tool rather than a source of stress.