Join our Youth Action Board! ​

​At TYFS, our active Youth Action Board is a testament to our commitment to diversity. Composed of young people from the local community, it represents a wide spectrum of race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, lived experience, ability, and socioeconomic status. The board's primary goal is to ensure that the unique voices and experiences of our youth are integrated into the development and services of each center. In addition, our youth advisors play a crucial role as community ambassadors, conducting outreach and education through schools, community events, conferences, social media, and within their peer groups.
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At TYFS, our agency is powered by the YAB, a key player in guiding the planning, implementation, and ongoing service delivery strategy. We believe in the power of youth voices and encourage other organizations operating youth-driven programs to maintain a similar youth advisory board to ensure effective strategic guidance.    

Are you ready to make a difference in our community!
Apply by scanning ​the QR code below.

Christopher Lilly

Board Member - Youth Action Board Chair

My name is Christopher Lilly, but I go by Topher. I was born and raised in South Lake Tahoe. Brought up by a single Mother, I was taught to always question authority and never be afraid to stand up for what’s right.  In high school, I founded the Student Advocacy Program (SAP) to advocate for my peers and ensure their rights were protected. Addressing numerous California Education Code violations and discriminatory actions based on race and gender, I learned to navigate a hostile administration with respect and dignity. Recognizing my efforts, Tahoe Youth and Family Services (TYFS) contacted me to establish and lead their Youth Action Board (YAB). Having received support from TYFS in the past, I eagerly accepted the opportunity to give back to an organization that had profoundly impacted my life. At 18, I was honored to be elected to the TYFS board of directors. In this role, I continue to stand for fairness and empowerment, striving to make a positive difference in the lives of those around me.