In recent years, more and more people are becoming more comfortable with speaking about their own government opinions. Today, conversations such as climate change, and same-sex marriages have caused younger generations to find their voice and speak up. The YMCA Youth in Government is a youth development program emphasizing the YMCA’s four core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
What is Youth in Government (YIG)?
Minnesota YMCA Youth in Government is a youth-led opportunity that allows young people to engage with the workings of government through experiential learning. It involves 2,500 middle-school and high school students each year in a variety of programs. The two main programs that the St. Cloud Area Family YMCA participate in is Model Assembly and Model United Nations. Through Model Assembly students between the grades of 8-12 are able to learn about the Minnesota government and leadership. Model UN is a replica of the UN and it is conducted by students who “adopt” a nation and research its history, economy, culture, and system of government.
Why should YOU get involved now?
- Build skills for the real world
- Learn things you can’t learn from a test-critical thinking, professional skills, and leadership
- Get exposed to students from other parts of the states who have different viewpoints
- Have powerful conversations on important issues in respectful and mind-opening ways
- Meet new people and make friendships that will last a lifetime
- Strengthen resumes and college applications
Conference Dates:
Model Assembly- Thursday, January 9 – Sunday, January 12, 2020 Registration Open
Model United Nations- Thursday, March 26, 2020 – Saturday, March 28, 2020
“I’ve become much more comfortable speaking up about my thoughts and opinions, especially when they differ from those around me. I have become much more self-sufficient and confident in my abilities.”
Fun Fact: Minnesota is among the top programs in the nation, both in terms of quality and number of students. 60% of participants and 55% of youth program leaders are female. Nearly two-thirds of all eligible students return the next year.
For more information: Contact the Delegation Director Sara Salas Ramirez [email protected] or call 320.230.3625