What is Youth & Government?

YMCA Texas Youth & Government is a nationwide, youth led, civic engagement program for high school and middle school students.  It is an exciting hands-on experience in the mechanics of government along with print and broadcast media.  Students participate in their clubs, then compete at their local District Conference, culminating in a three day State Conference in Austin, TX.  Students compete to be selected for the Conference on National Affairs and the National Judicial Competition.Texas Youth & Government

How do we participate in YG?

• Ask your local YMCA to do a presentation at your school
• Engage a dedicated adult advisor
• Begin a club with your local YMCA
• Prepare, practice and participate!

*Financial Assistance & Income Based Club fees are available

Why participate in YG?

• Understand of local, state, national & international issues
• Research, writing about and debating these public issues
• Exploration of careers in public service
• Interaction with adult and youth leaders involved in the decision-making processes
• An understanding of effective and peaceful resolution of issues and concerns, fostering diplomacy
• An appreciation for the diversity of viewpoints on public issues and a concurrent respect for ideas, beliefs and the positions of others, teaching empathy
• Demonstration of citizenship responsibilities and leadership roles essential to the health of a democracy
• A positive self-image and confidence necessary to succeed in post-secondary and the work place
• Promotion of values such as servant leadership, civic engagement, the voting process and volunteerism

For your students, YG also helps enhance academic and UIL performance, as well as already existing clubs such as Media, Debate and World Affairs, Mock Trial and more.