The YMCA Youth & Government program teaches students democracy, engages them civically, and inspires them to be changemakers in their communities.
Oklahoma Youth and Government is a YMCA program that teaches middle and high school students about government through hands-on experience. Delegates can choose from multiple sections, each offering unique opportunities to develop leadership, public speaking, and critical thinking skills while encouraging self-expression and giving students the confidence to advocate for the issues and ideas they care about.
Act as a Senator or Representative by preparing bills, participating in committee hearings and floor debates, and voting on bills brought to the floor.
Advocate for special issues and topics by researching bills, understanding their impact, and providing information to legislators to help inform them on important issues.
Research and prepare criminal and civil cases. Attorneys and witnesses portray their roles while building confidence and strengthening their public speaking and advocacy skills.
Research and prepare appeals cases. devloping the ability to think quickly and confidently under pressure by presenting arguments while responding to questions from student justices.
Learn reporting and technical writing by developing a newspaper. Build production and broadcast skills through broadcast media, along with information-sharing skills through cyber media.
The Governor’s Cabinet is part of the executive branch. The Governor’s Cabinet works with the Youth Governor to develop and advocate for a legislative platform, interacting with all other sections.
