Democracy Must Be Learned By Each Generation

Youth & Government is a statewide civic education and leadership program in which schools, civic organizations and Ys involve kids in hands-on learning experiences.

YMCA Youth and Government allows middle and high school students to experience the excitement of our state government in action.

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. Model United Nations in also an option.

In November, clubs compete at District Conference, and the top individuals and teams advance to the State Conferences in January and February in Austin. Model United Nations Assembly takes place in April. Thank you to everyone who participated at the conferences this year for all your hard work! We hope to see you again next year - stay tuned for updates on the next program year in the fall!

Visit the State Website Volunteer With Us Scholarship Application

Resources for...

Parents

/teens/youth_and_government/parents

Advisors and Clubs

/teens/youth_and_government/teachers_and_clubs

Advocacy

/teens/youth_and_government/advocacy

/yg-contact-us

Sections

Judicial

/teens/youth_and_government/judicial

Legislative

/teens/youth_and_government/legislative

Media

/teens/youth_and_government/media

State Affairs

/teens/youth_and_government/state_affairs

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS YOUTH & GOVERNMENT?

A nation-wide YMCA program in which students learn the mechanics of government and the media by participating in hands-on activities in their club at their school or local YMCA. 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?

YG is a life-changing program.
Students gain the following from YG:

Confidence
Leadership and Public Speaking Skills
Empathy and Diplomacy
Stronger work ethic
Value of voting and volunteering
Organized decision making skills
New friends and important life-long connections
A better understanding of the workings of government

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.

Thanks to our Sponsors!