Teen Leadership Development Programs Available to All

 

YMCA programs are open and available to everyone within our communities, and you do not need to be a Y member to participate in any of the Teen Leadership Development programs offered. No person shall be turned away due to the inability to pay. Open to Grades: 8-12.

 

Program Fee: $575

Payments may be made on a monthly draft or paid in full upon registration.

Registration Opens

Registration opens August 15, 2026, and closes on January 29, 2027.

Conference Dates

May 5-8, 2027.

Scholarships

Scholarships at the Y help remove the financial barriers to accessing YMCA facilities, programs, and services. Scholarships are provided based on household, income, and special circumstances. Please complete the application online and a Y staff member will contact you soon. Apply For A Scholarship.

 

Plan Ahead: Meetings, Locations, and Materials

Tacoma Delegation

Location: Lakewood Family YMCA

Meeting Details: Tuesday Evenings from 6-7pm

Pearl Street Delegation

Location: Pearl Street Family YMCA

Meeting Details: Monday Evenings from 6-7pm

Delegate Material Templates

Act
Initiative
Memorial
Resolution

 

 

YMCA Youth and Government delegate states their case during the conference held at the Washington State capitol

What is Youth and Government?

Youth and Government goes beyond the classroom. Teens learn by doing through hands-on, student-led experiences. 

Participants build skills to prepare for the annual YMCA Youth Legislature Conference through delegation meetings and district and state events. The program culminates in May, where teens take on roles across state government: executive leaders, legislators, lobbyists, and press.

 

 

 

What Delegates Will Learn In Youth and Government

 

  • A deeper understanding of how the role they play is important to government
  • Public speaking competence, problem-solving ability, and communication skills
  • Build self-confidence, reliance, and a sense of purpose
  • Careful deliberation skills about social issues and their possible resolutions
  • Hear and respect varying viewpoints along with collaboration skills
  • The application of ethical values in making public policy
  • How to enhance leadership skills and advocate through the legislative process

 

Don Brevik

Association Youth and Government Director

Phone

253-460-8822

Email

dbrevik@ymcapkc.org