Impacting the Community through Government
Youth and Government is a national YMCA program designed for high school students in grades 10-12, providing a “hands-on” leadership experience in state government. This project-based program is perfect for future lawyers, leaders, and anyone passionate about making a difference in their community. Participants will gain invaluable experience in public speaking, debate, and law, empowering them with the skills to effect meaningful change.
The program runs from September 2026 through February 2027 and requires teens to meet in person twice a month on the first and third Thursdays at the Bryan YMCA from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. During the program, participants will actively engage in the legislative process by writing mock laws or bills, giving them a unique opportunity to learn how government works and how to influence their communities.
Participants will research a cause they believe in, write a bill or proposed law, and practice public speaking and debate skills to prepare for presenting their bill at the State Youth and Government Conference, where over 1,500 students from across North Carolina come together to share their ideas and make their voices heard.
Serving the Greensboro, Jamestown, Eden and Reidsville, NC, areas, the YMCA of Greensboro wants to be your first option for college preparation.
For questions, contact Eric Graves or call (336) 272-2131.
Program Details
- Youth and Government is limited to 15 participants
- First meeting is on Thursday, September 3, 2026
- Recurring meetings will be on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month September 2026 through February 2027 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Meeting location is Bryan Family YMCA in Downtown Greensboro located at 501 W Market St
- The program costs $725 per participant