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MARC Celebrates 20 Years of Youth Leadership and Opens Applications for 2018-2019

Posted in: Leadership & Engagement

Posted on: Feb 22, 2018

The Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC) is now accepting applications for 2018-2019.

This year, the program marked 20 years of preparing the region’s next generation of leaders. The 2017-2018 class recently graduated, as 50 students from the 10-county Atlanta region came together over six months to engage with experts and community leaders. Over that time, they honed their leadership skills while gaining a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities affecting their communities.

2017-2018 MARC students take part in a simulation about food insecurity at the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

MARC participants studied, debated, and took part in activities pertaining to real regional issues and challenges, including…

  • Exploring the complex obstacles that contribute to food insecurity via a firsthand simulation at the Atlanta Community Food Bank
  • Learning about public art and its benefits
  • Exploring the factors that affect responsible water usage
  • Speaking with local changemakers in the areas of equity and resilience
  • Discussing ways that we, as a region, can better serve our aging population.

The experience moved from discussion and study to action, as MARC participants formed committees and developed resolutions that were later presented to the ARC board for consideration. While drafting these resolutions, participants practiced skills such as collaboration and networking within a diverse group of their peers.

2018-2019 MARC Program Now Accepting Applications

The 2018-2019 MARC program is now taking applications from rising 10th and 11th grade students in who reside or attend school in the 10-county Atlanta region (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties, as well as the city of Atlanta).

We’re seeking students who are looking to promote change, grow their leadership potential, and increase their knowledge of regional issues.

Please visit our website for more information.

Questions? Contact Brittney Palmer at marc@atlantaregional.org.

Students Talk about MARC

2017-2018 MARC students present their resolutions to their peers.

“MARC provides motivated youth an opportunity to show our community that we want to make a difference and are able to enact change.” — 2015-16 MARC participant, North Gwinnett High School

“MARC has introduced me to so many different aspects and areas of the Atlanta region that I never knew existed.” — 2015-2016 MARC participant, Milton High School

ARC Annual Partners

ARC’s Strategic Partners are committed to fostering collaborative regional approaches that improve quality of life in metro Atlanta. Their support elevates ARC leadership programs, research and events throughout the year. Learn more