Youth Programs

Youth and Government

Youth between the ages of 14-16 are faced with many challenges in today’s society.  A great majority of our youth lack the basic knowledge and understanding of how the United States democratic process works.  It is vital that today’s youth are able to create a voice in an educated and informed manner and are able to make change through democracy.  It is important that youth know that they can make an impact on today’s society by being a contributing citizen through actively being involved with community activism, civic engagement, and applying political leverage.  This goal is met by academic enhancement through the development of research, reading, writing skills, and interpersonal communication skills.

One way the New Bedford YMCA has sought to help the youth of our community is by running our Youth and Government program.  This program educates high school students about the principles of democratic government.  The goal of the program is to prepare students for moral and responsible leadership in the American democratic process by providing guidance, training and experience in the theory and practice of determining public policy in all three branches of government.

The program is administered by a Y Program Director and volunteers who dedicate themselves to the mission of providing realistic experiences in determining public policy.  The Y's Youth and Government program provides outstanding opportunities for many youth to truly experience democracy.