Youth and Government (Grades 9 - 12)

The California YMCA Model Legislature and Court program, also called Youth & Government, is based on the idea that democracy must be learned by each generation. This statewide program for high school students delivers a hands-on experience of state government. A variety of activities build, encourage and strengthen the skills and character traits that will help high school youth become involved, responsible adults who are decent and respected citizens.

Each fall, more than 2,000 teens and 250 volunteers meet as individual delegations at their local YMCAs. The teen delegates debate issues that are important to them and to the state, nation and world. The delegates write bills, select governmental positions to role-play, attend statewide training conferences and run for office.

In February, a five-day Model Legislature convenes in Sacramento at the State Capitol. There, the "regular" occupants of state government offices move over and the teen delegates take over, using the historic halls, chambers, and offices of our State Capitol, Supreme Court and Governor's Office.