Youth and Government™ is a national program of the Y that involves thousands of teens nationwide in state-organized, model-government programs. Students from every corner of the U.S. have the opportunity to immerse themselves in experiential civic engagement and to, quite literally, practice democracy. Teens from across every state meet in their local Youth and Government™ groups throughout the year to discuss and debate issues that affect citizens of their state and to propose legislation. The program culminates with teens serving as delegates at their state conference, debating bills on the floor of the legislature.
Program Structure
Students meet regularly as a club during the fall semester and throughout the year. Each club consists of participating students and an adult sponsor (usually a teacher) and is guided and supported by YMCA staff and volunteers. Students choose to participate in one of four areas: legislative, judicial, media, or state affairs forum.
Conferences
In November, clubs compete at District Conference, and the top individuals and teams advance to the State Conferences in January and February in Austin.
Thank you to everyone who participated at the conferences this year for all your hard work! We hope to see you again next year.
