Youth & Government

Youth & Government is a high school age “hands-on” leadership experience in State Government. Our goal is to empower teens to learn how to make an impact on their community. Youth and Government, or YAG, is a great fit for teens who want to see and enact change in the world, or, simply meet more people and have fun. In addition to looking great on a resume, Youth and Government teaches critical thinking skills, networking skills, teamwork, and strives to build self esteem. The highlight of the program is a weekend long trip to Raleigh where the students take control of the mock state government. With many opportunities to grow within the program, students can serve as legislators, attorneys, judges, lobbyists, budget analysts, journalists, photographers, and more. Elected positions are available as well. By allowing teens to become decision makers, teens not only learn how the world around them works but also how to make a real difference.

Due to COVID-19, Youth and Government has moved to a virtual platform. While we will miss seeing all of our delegates in person, we are thrilled to be able to offer this unique experience to teens all across North Carolina. In the past, we’ve only been able to offer it at a handful of high schools — mostly in Forsyth County. But with a virtual option, we can now offer it to all teens — both Y members and potential members — across the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina association! Some teens will have the opportunity to be founding members of Youth and Government delegations, or clubs, at their school.

Parent Packet to come

Important Dates to Come

Check out www.ncyag.org for more information!

See your adviser for your delegation’s assigned volunteer events.

If you need financial assistance, you can apply through our Open Doors Financial Assistance program.

Questions? Please contact Jennifer Cleary at j.cleary@ymcanwnc.org