Youth and Government - South Sound YMCA

Youth and Government

Out-of-the-box learning experiences

YOUTH & GOVERNMENT

At the Y, we believe in the potential of all young people. YMCA Youth & Government fosters the development of citizen responsibility by developing problem solving and communication skills, providing positive adult mentors, and giving young people opportunities to practice new skills in hands-on programs.

Go behind the scenes at the Washington State Capitol. Learn about the democratic process and practice civil discourse. Gain confidence and social skills through challenging debates, bill writing, and campaigning.

REGISTER

 

Through the process of identifying issues and developing solutions, young people build confidence in an environment that inspires them to act with integrity and respect. Youth Legislature is a student directed model offering teens the opportunity to develop leadership skills, explore a career in public service, write and critique law, attend bi-monthly meeting and the annual Youth Legislation session in May at our state capital with teens from around the state, and assume the role of a statewide officer, such as Senator, Representative, Lobbyist, Journalist.

Youth and Government meets every other Wednesday from 6PM-7:30PM at the South Sound YMCA Association Office – 2102 Carriage Drive SW, Bldg. K, Olympia, WA 98502. Meetings will start October 2, 2024.
Open to everyone from ages 13 to 18.
Financial assistance is available.

Contact Information:

Sergio Garcia
Executive Director of Youth Development
garcias@ssymca.net
(360) 968-3824

Megan Lobdell
Youth and Government Program Director
lobdellm@ssymca.net
(360) 918-0324

Gerry O’Keefe
Delegation Advisor