YMCA Youth & Government

Youth and Government is a nationwide civic program that prepares high school students for moral and political leadership. Students join local clubs or delegations. Each club, or delegation, works together throughout the school year to learn about the legislative and judicial process.

Delegations typically meet weekly. Delegations attend the North Carolina Youth Legislature Conference.  Held annually in February, this conference brings students together from across the state to experience the governmental process first-hand through a youth-run and youth-led model. 

Registration for Youth and Government is now open. The fee for participants is $650. This covers the annual conference. But is also includes many more benefits and opportunities. Learn more about what is included in the registration fee.

Program Competencies

• Gain knowledge of government structures, democratic process, and how to create public policy 
• Develop confidence and critical thinking skills through leadership development
• Expand awareness of societal issues, career & networking opportunities 
• Enhance communication skills through opportunities for debate, public speaking, and writing. 

How to Advocate for Teen Civic Engagement

• Join a local delegation as a participant or volunteer club advisor 
• Begin a delegation club at your school or local YMCA
• Sponsor a student scholarship to attend the state or national conference
• If you are an elected official, practicing attorney, or specialize in any of the conference roles and are willing to attend a conference, share insight with student leaders, or help us create civic awareness in our community contact our state director, Amber McClure.

Contact

For more information about NC YMCA Youth and Government, contact Amber McClure.

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Get Involved

We are always looking for more volunteers. Are you a Youth & Government Alumnae? Let us know.