Giving Huntington’s Youth a Voice
Councilwoman Berland established the Huntington Youth Council (HYC) in 2003. The HYC is an organization comprised of students from each of the nine public high schools in the Town of Huntington. They meet monthly to discuss issues that affect the youth of our community and to plan events that engage their peers in local issues. The Huntington Youth Council is now in its thirteenth year of operation and has raised thousands of dollars for local charities in the Town of Huntington.

Teaching our Youth to Protect Fish and their HabitatCouncilwoman Berland sponsors the annual “Fisherman for a Day” contest where students submit a typed-written essay about why they want to spend the day on the water and why it is important to protect fish and their habitat. Thirty winners between the ages of seven and thirteen are selected to learn the Tricks of the Trade from The Suffolk County Senior Citizens Fishing Club and The Imperial Sportsmen Club of Long Island while enjoying a nice day on The James Joseph II charter fishing boat.

Recruiting the Next Generation of Heroes

Councilwoman Berland sponsored legislation for the Town of Huntington to provide assistance with the registration and operation of the Dix Hills Fire Department’s Junior Firefighter Academy.

Recognizing Huntington’s Rising Thespians

Councilwoman Berland co-sponsors the annual Hunting-Tony Awards, an evening dedicated to celebrating the talent and devotion of students who participate in high school theater productions within the Town of Huntington. A panel of volunteer judges attends play and musical productions produced by all nine public high schools within the Town of Huntington to determine the winners of categories such as: best actor/actress, best singer, best pit, best choreography, etc. 

Sponsoring an Annual Basketball Tournament

Councilwoman Berland sponsors an annual Co-Ed Youth Basketball Tournament at Coral Park.

Encouraging Civic Responsibility in Huntington’s Youth

Councilwoman Berland regularly invites local summer camps, schools and scouting troops in the Town of Huntington to participate in mock town board meetings and holds discussions regarding the different facets of the Town’s many departments.

Supporting Suffolk County Youth Programming

Councilwoman Berland continually sponsors legislation to authorize agreements with the Suffolk County Youth Bureau to provide essential programs for the youth of Huntington.