YMCA of the Triangle
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FAQs and General Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions, browse our FAQs below to learn more about the program, it's outcomes and how to get involved.

A YMCA nationwide civic program that prepares high school students for moral and political leadership. Throughout the school year, participants immerse themselves in civic engagement and learning through their local club delegation which culminates at the model-government state conference. Held annually in February, the NC Youth Legislature Conference brings students together from across the state to experience the governmental process first-hand.

Many delegates are not interested in politics but are interested in expanding public speaking opportunities, meeting people around the state, and developing civil discourse and communication skills. Delegates also interested in extra-curricular activities for college entrance applications are highly encouraged to participate. Additionally, we have participants who are interested in pursuing a future political path and this program prepares them for skills needed to be successful. 

A Delegation is a group of youth from a school, YMCA, or community group that is organized by a Delegation Lead Advisor/Advisor. Delegations can be groups of any size, from a small cluster of 4 students to larger organizations of over 100.  Any YMCA branch or school (private, public, or charter) can start a delegation. New delegations should be formed no later than October of the school year to successfully participate at the State Conference

The YMCA charges a set fee for participants to attend the annual North Carolina Youth & Government Conference each year which is a 3-night and 4-day experiential learning event in downtown Raleigh hosted in the Raleigh Convention Center, and hotel meeting spaces. Delegation fees are dependent on the delegation. Delegations are welcome to incorporate fundraising in their individual programming. A limited number of scholarships are available each year. 

  • Gain knowledge of government structures, democratic process, and how to create public policy
  • Develop confidence and critical thinking skills through leadership development
  • Expand awareness of societal issues, career & networking opportunities
  • Enhance communication skills through opportunities for debate, public speaking, and writing.

General Program Information

Below is a broad overview of our program guidelines for advisors and delegates. While following the North Carolina Civics curriculum, the advisor and delegation play an important role in our communities. Our advisors see how North Carolina YMCA Youth & Government impacts their delegates firsthand through this volunteer mentorship.

  • Spend time with students and create an environment of learning.
  • Build healthy, positive relationships with students.
  • Work closely with a small group creating an opportunity to educate and nurture potential. Clubs must adhere to a 1:12 advisor-to-student ratio for all functions, including club meetings.

  • Gain an understanding of formal and informal governance structures.
  • Participate actively in the legislative, judicial, lobbyist and/or press process
  • Become aware of societal issues and their resolutions.
  • Develop confidence in and dedication to the democratic process.
  • Learn participative leadership skills.
  • Enhance communication skills.
  • Listen to and learn to respect varying viewpoints.
  • Learn accountability and respect for others’ rights.
  • Work alongside and learn from older, experienced students.
  • Apply moral and ethical valuing processes to public policy making
  • Gain exposure to potential career opportunities.
  • Gain hands-on experience with parliamentary procedure, bill research, bill writing, judicial brief writing, public speaking training, position paper writing and debate training.

  • Attend Monthly Advisor Meetings hosted by the State Office.
  • Familiarize yourself with the vision, competencies and resources created by the state office to sustain a successful delegation.
  • Recruit delegates and host bi-weekly meetings.
  • Attend the annual state conference.

Youth and Government advisors complete thorough training with YMCA before beginning their roles. All participants adhere to a code of conduct. In addition, please remember and consider the following:
Be Respectful 
Our teens are finding their voices and in the process of developing leadership and communication skills.

Be Responsible
Our program intention is to build policy process knowledge. The goal is not to influence teens with personal political views.

Be Safe
Our teens should be exposed to age-appropriate conversations and experiences which includes professional and kind language.