ONEin3: Brainstorming to better Boston

A board of ambitious young Bostonians is looking to recruit some fresh new faces to help make the Hub a more happening place for its 20 and 30-something-year-olds.

Last week the ONEin3 Boston Mayor’s Advisory Council started accepting applications for new members. Since then, hundreds have reach out to the organization, all vying for a spot on the 24-member board.

Mayor Thomas M. Menino founded the program in 2004 to advise him on policy and programming. Since then it has yielded a neighborhood tour, housing guides, networking events, park cleanups and wiffle ball tournaments, to name a few.

The council is made up of Boston residents between the ages of 20 and 34, because according to city officials, more than one-third of the city’s population is made up of that demographic – hence “one in three.”

“We’re looking to build a council that is very representative of the diverse mix in Boston,” said ONEin3 Manager Chloe Ryan, 25, a former council member.

That means young entrepreneurs, new and lifelong Bostonians, and new parents are all welcome on the council.

“The city is home to young adults from all different walks of life. I’d say overall we are looking for people who are engaged with the city, excited to be here and can think of ways to make improvements,” she said.

Former New Yorker and a 2012 ONEin3er Lily Lynch now calls Boston her home, which is why she decided to do some housekeeping.

“It’s important to make the city a home for that young demographic, and more than just a stepping stone,” said Lynch, 28.

Boston-native Anthony Barrows, 34, spent two years chipping away on ONEin3 projects, often over food and drinks with other members.

“I developed awesome friendships and professional connections,” he said. “Being a part of a group of energetic people committed to bettering the city was a real privilege in and of itself, and the experiences and networks that I’ve developed were a bonus.”

Those interested in applying for a seat on the advisory council can visit www.onein3boston.com.

Check out some of the projects the group has tackled:

ONEin3 Break the Bubble Young Entrepreneurs Event brought college students from all over Boston into the Innovation District at MassChallenge to hear from a group of young entrepreneurs who have been successful starting their own businesses in Boston.

“Eastie Essentials” was a neighborhood tour and trivia event last year, which was held as a result of a ONEin3 survey that found East Boston to be under-trafficked by the 20-34 year olds compared to other neighborhoods in Boston.

The group has also done a housing report on neighborhood priorities for young professionals, as well as guides to showcase the diverse neighborhoods in Boston and inform on housing opportunities including average cost to own and rent.

“Neighborhood Nights” brings ONEin3ers together throughout Boston to introduce residents to neighborhood businesses and inspire a positive sense of community, as well as provide an opportunity for networking with neighbors.