A committee is a small group of people chosen to work together on a specific task or make decisions about something particular. Schools have committees that plan events like the spring carnival or decide which books to add to the library. A city might form a committee to figure out where to build a new park or how to improve traffic safety near schools.

Committees exist because some jobs are too big or complex for one person, and because getting input from several people can lead to better decisions. A committee studying school lunch options might include parents, teachers, students, and the cafeteria manager. Each person brings different knowledge and perspectives.

When people say “a camel is a horse designed by a committee,” they're joking that committees can make things too complicated by trying to please everyone. But committees can also be remarkably effective. The group of people who wrote the Declaration of Independence was a committee, and they managed to create one of history's most important documents by working together, debating ideas, and combining their talents.

Most committees have a chairperson who runs meetings and keeps everyone focused. Being on a committee means showing up, sharing ideas, listening to others, and working toward the group's goal.