About Us
The State Farm Southern Zone Youth Advisory Board (SZYAB) was established in 2006 with the mission to improve the lives of youth and impact communities through the support of youth lead service learning projects.
Diverse students, ages 17-20, from across the State Farm Southern Zone, which includes Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina, were selected to design and implement signature service-learning initiatives. The students chose three critical issues to address: driver safety, financial literacy education and workplace readiness. The SZYAB members are responsible for creating Requests for Proposals that were distributed to schools and youth-serving organizations. The SZYAB will then make the final decisions on the proposals that will be funded.
Students chosen presented a clear understanding of service-learning and its value to communities. They were highly motivated, exemplary team players, school and community leaders.
State Farm believes all children should have access to a high-quality education that equips them to achieve their greatest potential. State Farm supports service-learning because it provides context for talking about learning in terms of not only what students know but also what they are able to do for the community. Service-learning is a teaching method that combines service to the community with classroom curriculum. It is more than merely community service. It is a hands-on approach to mastering subject material while fostering civic responsibility.
State Farm has long believed that for communities to thrive, young people must be empowered as leaders and decision-makers to address real issues and problems. By identifying and implementing projects, students become excited about their education. They learn civic responsibility and develop meaningful leadership and workplace skills. Service-learning connects academics to real-life experiences and accommodates many different learning styles.
Youth interested in applying for board membership can contact one of the local contacts to receive an application.
Organizations interested in applying for a grant can contact one of the local contacts to receive a Request for Proposal. Request for Proposals will be available in May 2010.
