Year About Youth

In her January 10, 2025, State of the City Address, Mayor Kim Norton unveiled the Year About Youth initiative. In her State of the City Address on January 8, 2026, Mayor Norton proclaimed Year About Youth 2! This two-year commitment to our community's future generations is designed to highlight youth development, engagement, and opportunities throughout Rochester. 

Please see below for two opportunities in Rochester this summer! 

 

Here are just a few ways to get involved in the Year About Youth initiative in 2025 (and beyond):

  • Be there for parents. Listen to them, share resources. Refer parents to our strong Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program at Northrop Education Center.
  • Consider donating time or money to to one of the many local community organizations that support families.
  • Be a good neighbor! Share a meal, offer a ride, pass along hand-me-downs, or look out for kids in your neighborhood.
  • At home, simple actions like reading to children daily or setting aside tech-free “family time” can make a big difference. 
  • As an organizationyou could host a special event for children or youth or highlight the positive qualities and accomplishments of local kids throughout the year.

Join the Mayor at Bike Parade on Saturday, June 27!

Beginning at 10:30 am, there will be free bike decorations for the first 250 youth who pre-register here

All are welcome to participate in the Bike Parade which begins at 11:30 am at the Edison Building Parking Lot (615 7th Street SW). 

(Bike Image here)

 

Mayor Norton will be sponsoring a Youth Summit on Wednesday, September 23 for high school students in Olmsted County. There will be speakers, roundtables, entertainment, and an opportunity to network!

If you are interested in being part of the Summit Planning Team, please email Michon at mrogers@rochestermn.gov

Location, time, and registration information is forthcoming!

Sign up here to receive updates as plans develop.

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Rochester, MN 55904

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