Created in 1996, the Los Angeles Youth Council (LAYC) is a voluntary group of youth between the ages of 13-19 and residents of the City of Los Angeles. Members of LAYC serve as advocates of the City's youth by promoting existing City sponsored programs, identifying the need for new programs and activities, and by securing the involvement of young people in the community and into the City's governmental processes.

As the representatives of youth in the City and the link to City officials, LAYC members have the opportunity and responsibility to bring forth youth needs and the City's response to those needs. LAYC serves as a leadership, youth development, and community empowerment opportunity for its members as well as other youth in the City. Members are engaged in a variety of activities from community development to developing policy recommendations about key issues that affect the youth of Los Angeles.

There are five levels of membership in the LAYC organization:
    + LAYC Chapter
    + Appointed Council District Member
    + Elected Council District Member
    + Executive Board
    + Youth Commissioner

Each year, members of the LAYC come together at their annual meeting in June to discuss the issue(s) most affecting youth in Los Angeles. A theme is selected to address the issue(s) for the upcoming school year. LAYC Chapters develop projects and events to tackle the issue(s) and promote the theme. In addition, LAYC and Chapter Members organize events to raise awareness, and educate and engage youth in their communities.