About Us | Riverside County Youth Commission

About The Youth Commission

On January 6, 1998, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the formation of a countywide Youth Commission to advise the Board of Supervisors on issues relevant to youth in the County. The idea for a Youth Commission arose in 1996 at a Youth Summit in Palm Desert. It was suggested that a Youth Commission be established and act as an advisory board to the Board of Supervisors. Working closely with the Youth Commission, the Board of Supervisors has the opportunity to interact on a personal level with Riverside County youth, better respond to and understand their needs in making policy decisions. In considering the immense size of Riverside County, the Supervisors decided to create five Youth Advisory Councils, one for each Supervisorial District, in order to have more accurate representation from all areas of the county.

The Commission & Youth Advisory Councils provide advice, assistance and recommendations on youth related issues to the Board of Supervisors and County Departments. In addition, the Youth Commission focuses on anticipating the educational, recreational and cultural needs of youth by working together to host meaningful events that the youth will benefit from. The Commission works to ensure the coordination of community resources in order to improve the quality of life of all young people in the County of Riverside.

Community Impact

During the 2023 - 2024 school year, the Youth Commission students volunteered over 4,162 hours of community service. The website “Independent Sector” places a value of over $33.49 per hour for volunteer work and using this figure the YAC donated nearly $140,000 this year. While it is not possible to place a dollar value on the services they provide, it is important to understand that they are accomplishing real goals, learning incredibly valuable life lessons, and making Riverside County a better place for all of us.

Meet the Youth Commission Staff

Joseph Mathews - Youth Commission Program Coordinator

Joseph Mathews serves as the Board of Supervisors Legislative Intern and Youth Commission Program Coordinator for Riverside County Workforce Development and was previously a member of the County’s Workforce Development Employer Services Team where he worked directly with businesses. Prior to coming to the County, Joseph oversaw the creation and implementation of family, youth, cultural and wellness programming for Morongo Tribal TANF. Joseph earned his BS degree in Counseling from Johnson University in Knoxville, TN and has an MBA through Southern New Hampshire University and is passionate about working with youth in the community.

Angie Salinas - 1st District YAC Coordinator

Salinas serves as the Youth Advisory Council Coordinator for Riverside County District 1, where she channels the voices of young people into impactful community initiatives. Growing up in Indio, California, Angie developed a deep passion for advocacy and a strong belief in the potential for humanity to create a harmonious and progressive society. Her role allows her to help shape a better future by empowering youth to take active roles in their communities.
Angie’s background is rich with community service experience. She has volunteered in various initiatives, including environmental efforts like planting trees and cleaning beaches, as well as educational outreach, such as disaster preparedness and life skills workshops for youth. As a Zumba instructor, Angie has built supportive communities by encouraging individuals of all ages to stay active and embrace their creativity through dance. Her commitment to service extends to volunteering at events that provide essential resources to families in need, such as food and school support.
Currently pursuing a degree in Political Science with a focus on Law and Society at the University of California, Angie also minors in Philosophy, which fuels her aspirations to become a Supreme Court lawyer. Her passion for justice and community drives her work, making her a valuable leader and mentor within the Youth Advisory Council.

Nazareth Vera - 2nd District YAC Coordinator

Nazareth Vera is a Legislative Intern for Second District Supervisor Karen Spiegel. She is currently completing her bachelor’s degree in public policy at the University of California, Riverside, while also pursuing a master’s degree through a dual-degree program. Nazareth is on track to graduate in spring 2026 with both degrees. She is deeply committed to mentoring the younger generation, driven by her passion for inspiring youth to actively contribute to their community.

Ruben Quezada - 3rd District YAC Coordinator

Ruben Quezada is a Legislative Intern to Third District Supervisor Chuck Washington. Ruben currently attends California Baptist University, majoring in Business Management. He is passionate about working with students and making a positive impact in their lives and he enjoys being an active mentor to the youth.

4th District YAC Coordinator

Victoria Podakova - 5th District YAC Coordinator

Victoria Podakova is a Political Science major at the University of California, Riverside, dedicated to advocating for environmental sustainability, supporting addiction services, and counseling in her community. As a first-generation college student, she is passionate about expanding access to resources and opportunities for youth, ensuring they have the support systems necessary for success. She is actively involved in local causes, promoting healthy relationships, and fostering strong community connections.
She serves as a Bonnie Reiss Climate Action Student Engagement Fellow and Marketing and Outreach Director for the Green Campus Action Plan, where she leads initiatives to promote sustainability on campus, engage students in climate policy, and develop educational campaigns. Her advocacy also extends to supporting survivors of domestic violence through her role as Philanthropy Chair for Alpha Chi Omega, where she organized fundraisers that raised thousands for the Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center.
Beyond advocacy, she is a leader in student organizations, serving as Class President of Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law and Government Fraternity, Vice President of Chapter Relations and Standards for Alpha Chi Omega, and Conference Committee Member for UCR Model United Nations. With a commitment to policy, outreach, communications, and nonprofit action, she strives to create meaningful change and empower future generations.