LEADERS ARE MADE
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YOUTH AND GOVERNMENT
The YMCA Model Legislature & Court teaches the values of democracy by creating citizen leaders from a cross-section of the state’s high school population, providing them with the opportunity to experience government first hand, and learning how to solve community problems through the democratic process. The program also helps develop within these youth, an attitude of empowerment and self-confidence. During a nine month program, the teen delegates write bills, select governmental positions to model, attend statewide training conferences, and run for various elected offices. The program reaches its peak in Sacramento at the State Capitol with the convening of the five day Model Legislature and Court experience. There, “real” government moves over and the teen delegates “take over,” using the historic halls, chambers, and offices of our State Capitol, Supreme Court, and Governor’s Office.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
The existing Y programs provide many opportunities for youth to develop leadership attributes. After-school sites host “Leaders Clubs.” They plan a variety of on-site activities for their school population and provide the impetus for initiatives such as “No Place for Hate.” The Leaders Club activities must receive outside funding in order to deliver their plans. Donations ensure that these youth learn to plan on a budget, set priorities and build consensus around decisions.
Summer Leadership Development Training Camps also provide leadership learning opportunities for youth too old for the camp experience; but too young to be employed. These youth attend trainings throughout the summer season. Your support makes certain that opportunities to develop leadership and job readiness skills remains a vital element of Y programs.
Your gift can make a meaningful, enduring impact right in your own neighborhood.
Begin a new Youth and Government Delegation at an additional High School: $8,500.
Sponsor one child in Leadership Development: $1,100.
Offer an in-house training for 15 staff: $760.
