Preparing Metro Atlanta's Next Generation of Leaders
Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC)

Since 1998, the Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC) youth leadership program has engaged hundreds of students in experiential learning with the region’s leaders and experts in transportation, natural resource sustainability, community development, and more.

MARC - Celebrating 25 years

Each of the Atlanta region’s 11 metro counties (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale) and the City of Atlanta are represented in the diverse range of 10th and 11th grade students that have completed the program.

The MARC Program

MARC participants go beyond classroom learning to become immersed in the planning and development of a large metro region. Leadership, communication, and collaboration are some of the skills developed as students take tours, engage in debates, complete case studies, and learn from the region’s transportation, planning, arts and culture, and human services experts.

Recent MARC experiences include:

  • Transformative discussions with top regional leaders and experts
  • Exclusive behind the scenes access to award winning facilities
  • Travel to multiple counties in the Atlanta region
  • Insights from and networking with nationally-recognized leaders

MARC Commitment and Requirements

MARC 2024-2025 sessions are scheduled to take place in person on the following dates.

  • Saturday, August 10: Kick-off
  • Saturday, September 7: All Day Retreat (Required)
  • Saturday, October 5
  • Saturday, November 2
  • Saturday, December 7
  • Saturday, January 25: Open House (Required)
  • Wednesday, March 12: ARC Board Presentation (Optional)

MARC Application

The application period for the 2024-2025 class has closed. Applications for the 2025-2026 class will open in late February 2025.

Application criteria:

  • Applications must be complete for consideration.
  • Students must be sophomores or juniors during the 2024-2025 academic year.
  • Students must demonstrate an ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
  • Students must demonstrate an interest in civic and community issues.
  • Students are selected based on their level of service and leadership, recommendations, and responses to essay questions.
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33°n
CDAP
Community Planning Academy
ConnectA
Empowerline
Georgia Commute Options
Green Communities
LCI
LINK
MARC
Metro Atlanta Speaks
MNG Water Planning District
RLI
State of the Region
UASI
WorkSource GA
33°n
CDAP
Community Planning Academy
ConnectA
Empowerline
Georgia Commute Options
Green Communities
LCI
LINK
MARC
Metro Atlanta Speaks
MNG Water Planning District
RLI
State of the Region
UASI
WorkSource GA