NICEVILLE, Fla. — The Niceville Youth Advisory Council has been named a 2025 Youth Council Excellence Award winner for its community outreach honoring seniors and veterans, the Florida League of Cities has announced.
The recognition highlights a two-part holiday project by the youth council that decorated the doors of more than 30 senior residents at the Bob Hope Enlisted Village and sent handwritten cards to military veterans.
The initiative was praised for bringing light and connection to individuals who might otherwise feel isolated during the holiday season.
“What these young volunteers accomplished goes far beyond festive decorations or holiday cards,” said Florida League of Cities President Michael C. Blake, Mayor of Cocoa.
“They created moments of connection, kindness, and community. I’m incredibly proud of the Niceville Youth Advisory Council for reminding our seniors and veterans that they are seen, valued, and deeply appreciated during the holiday season.”
The Florida League of Cities selects three winners each year from youth councils across the state. In addition to Niceville, this year’s winners include the youth councils of Ocoee and Satellite Beach.
Each winning group receives a $500 monetary award, a trophy, and recognition in the League’s Quality Cities magazine and online platforms.
Municipal youth councils are typically composed of local high school students and serve as advisory boards to their city governments. They are also referred to as youth corps, teen advisory boards, or mayor’s youth councils.
For more information on the award and winning projects, visit flcities.com/youthcouncils.
