Step Up for Kids & Clark County Youth Mayor

Bringing people together to raise awareness among voters & political candidates regarding the issues Nevada’s children face, and empowering youth to emphasize the importance of leadership in their community and beyond.

Contact Us

For more information, please contact us at 702-895-1040 or nicrp@unlv.edu.

About Step Up for Kids
Current Step Up for Kids Event
Previous Step Up For Kids Events
Clark County Strong Start Youth Mayor
Current Youth Mayor & Council
Previous Youth Mayors & Councils
How Organizations Can Get Involved

About Step Up for Kids

Each year Step Up for Kids brings together people to show widespread support for investments in children and families. Participants include child advocates, politicians, parents and kids. Events held across the country raise awareness among voters and political candidates regarding the issues American children face, such as access to early care and learning, after-school programs, poverty, child abuse and neglect, and health care.

Step Up for Kids events focus on raising awareness of issues American children face such as:

  • Access to early care and learning programs
  • Access to after-school programs
  • Poverty
  • Child abuse and neglect
  • Health care

Oct. 11th, 2025
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Pearson Community Center
1625 West Carey, Las Vegas, NV 89106

The Strong Start Youth Mayor program provides 4th and 5th graders the opportunity to run for the position of Clark County Youth Mayor. Approximately 6 candidates are selected each year to campaign for the position through social media and in person at the annual Step Up for Kids event where they can promote their candidacy to voters aged 17 and under and deliver a short speech on their campaign priorities. The elected Youth Mayor holds the position for one year and the other candidates have the option to be a part of the Youth Mayor Council. This program aims to empower youth, increase voter engagement, and emphasize the importance of leadership in their community and beyond.

Also, be sure to check out our


to see all of the exciting videos featuring our past Youth Mayors!

2025-26 Youth Mayor

Sophia Schafer

Sophia’s Plan: A helping hand!

Issues of Concern:

Access to mental health resources and awareness.

Access to extra curricular activities and positive role models.

Promoting a family environment that is safe and loving.

Meet the 2025-26 Youth Council Members!

2024-25 Youth Mayor

RJ Gourrier-Lopez, Jr.

“Helping build a brighter tomorrow!”

2024-25 Youth Council Members

Isabella Vivas

“Less Screen, More Green.”

Ms. Vivas is also the 1st runner up, making her the Youth Mayor Pro Temp!

Justyn Boumah

“Making a Difference, One Kindness Act at a Time.”

Keaton Bucher

“Nevada: Start Strong When You’re Young.”

Rene Guevara

“Safe and happy children in our community.”

How Organizations Can Get Involved

To ensure the success of Step Up for Kids in Nevada, we need YOUR help!

Different ways to get involved include having informational table, being listed as a co-support or a co-sponsor, and volunteering at our 2025 event.

About the Pearson Community Center

Dr. William U. Pearson Community Center
1625 West Carey, Las Vegas, NV 89106
Phone: (702) 455-1220
Fax: (702) 455-1246

www.clarkcountynv.gov

The Pearson Community Center offers a range of activities for all ages, including dance, sports, and fitness classes as well as a computer lab and rentable spaces. This park next to the Dr. William U. Pearson Community Center is a vibrant communty space with a picnic area, playground, themed splash pad, and public art on display.  The park also has a competition grade running track surfaced with specialized material, complete with lane markings.  Whether you’re looking to exercise, relax or engage in community events, this park has something for everyone!

Click here for the 2025 Summer Program Brochure

Skip to content