Boston/ Politics & Govt
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Published on May 10, 2024
Mayor Michelle Wu Appoints Aidan McDonough as New Director of SPARK Boston to Empower Youth EngagementSource: Unsplash/ S.H. Gue

Big news for the millennials and Gen Z of Boston as Mayor Michelle Wu heralds in a new era for the youth civic engagement platform SPARK Boston. The office announced Aidan McDonough as the fresh face to head the initiative, primed to bridge the gap between the city's young inhabitants and the gears of government.

Wu, aiming to inspire a younger demographic to take the reins in shaping Boston's skyline and society, has put her faith in McDonough's seasoned background in community organizing. Brought to the limelight is a bid to stoke the fires of activism within hearts still tender with youth. "Aidan's experience in community organizing makes him a great fit for this passionate, innovative group," Mayor Wu stated, proclaiming her eagerness to tackle millennial and Gen Z issues head-on.

A graduate from the University of Pittsburgh, McDonough moved to Boston in 2010 and delved into public service with zest. His track record includes a stint at Brighton Main Streets, where he served as the Executive Director, and aligning with the very council he's now set to lead back in 2018-2019. Community Engagement Cabinet Chief Brianna Millor echoed the mayor's sentiments, declaring, "Aidan's passion for empowering young adults and enthusiasm to deepen his work in public service makes him a great addition to the Community Engagement Cabinet."

Rooted within the Mayor’s Community Engagement Cabinet, SPARK Boston is the think tank and voice for the city's youth on issues close to their hearts. They meet monthly, marrying ideas with city leaders and crafting programs from voter resources to networking events. McDonough is no stranger to this world, and with his appointment, looks to draw from past experiences to fortify the council’s influence. "I plan on taking the lessons learned from my time on the council and continue providing opportunities for council members to be engaged in what is happening in local government," McDonough reflected on his plans for fostering active civic participation.