YAG Builds Future Leaders

By William Einhorn
Austin High School Delegation

Before kids can even vote some of them already know how to debate court cases,
propose laws, and write articles. YMCA Youth and Government (YAG) is the place where these
kids learn these skills. YAG is a club offered at many high schools across the country, one of
those states is Texas. Students compete in conferences against other schools in their same
district within their state. Students get to compete in mock trials, practice being journalists,
propose bills, or propose solutions to current world problems. Students who participate in the
conference get excellent experience participating in in roles that simuate real-world situations.

Some of the sections that are offered are: Legislative, State Affairs, Media, and Judicial. With all
of the different sections offered at YAG, there’s room for everyone. Future lawyers may do the
Judicial section to get courtroom experience through a mock trial, aspiring journalists would do
the media section, and future lawmakers would want to do the Legislative section.

Some of the biggest benefits of YAG are that you get crucial experience for roles in
government if that is what you want to pursue in life. YAG also gives you experience speaking in
front of a small group of people. More shy people get to go out of their comfort zone and get a
good experience publicly speaking. YAG is also very good when you are applying to college,
specifically for people going into majors like political science. Doing YAG is what will separate
you from the rest of the applicants.

Today, November 15th, 2025, the District 2 and 7 Conference is being held at Akins High
School. Districts 2 and 7 represent high schools in Austin, San Antonio, and Corpus Cristi.
Young leaders came from all of these places to debate their proposed bills, write articles, and
participate in court cases. Excitement is in the air as young leaders from districts 2 and 7 have
prepared for months just for today. They wrote their proposed bills, prepared to present
solutions to real-world problems, and studied their court cases. I spoke with Gabriel Lara from
the Austin High Judicial Delegation and asked him about the benefits of YAG. He said when
asked about how he believed he was benefiting, “It’s helping my public speaking skills, and
thinking on my feet as a lawyer”

YAG is an excellent opportunity for the young leaders of the world. Kids get so much
experience that is necessary to go into jobs related to politics when they are adults. They get a
jump start on their education on the topic while also getting experience doing the tasks that they
will be met with when working in the real field. If you are interested in going into politics in your
future or you just want to have a good experience, then YAG is definitely the program for you.

District 2 and 7 Conference YMCA Texas Youth and Government2025-11-15T13:56:01-06:00November 15th, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

A Guide to Youth and Government

By Sravya Garimella
Westlake High School

Youth and Government may appear extremely daunting at first, but upon closer examination, there is far more to it than meets the eye. Youth and Government is a nationwide program that gives students the opportunity to learn about the legislative process, debate real-world issues, and develop leadership skills in a supportive environment. According to former delegate Annika Krovi “The most important part of all of the programs is to be engaged in some ways!” Students simulate various
government roles, such as legislators and lawyers, and work collaboratively with peers. Through these experiences, students not only gain a deeper understanding of how government functions but also build confidence and lasting friendships. There is such a vast pool of opportunities for students, which makes it difficult to know what event embodies their interests. Krovi states “To me, YIG was very formative because it helped me discover my passion for government and public service! That only happened because I joined the events I was interested in, made friends, and learned more about the government through the conference. For that reason, I’d recommend that every student participates in this program and joins the events that they are inspired and interested in! That way, you’re having fun and learning at
the same time.” Youth and Government shows that when students step beyond their comfort zones, they gain more than just an understanding of politics. They build confidence, form lasting friendships, and develop a vision for the future, transforming challenges into opportunities for leadership and growth.

District 2 and 7 Conference YMCA Texas Youth and Government2025-11-15T13:11:15-06:00November 15th, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

The Faces Behind the Impact: Meet the YG team Spotlight

By: Dorcas Owala
John Marshall Law and Medical Services High School

The Youth and Government Program is focused on the key idea that “Democracy Must be Learned by Each Generation” in hopes that they can create future leaders of Democracy and help them gain life long skills for their future. The program allows students to be able to create/argue bills, write articles/news, act as attorneys, prosecutors, witnesses, judges, etc. With the help of the Volunteers, evaluators, leaders, etc, the Youth and Government is able to fully lead students to a Democratic future which fosters an understanding of roles and purpose in the program.

During District and State Conferences, you can be able to see the hard work and efforts the YG team does to help organize the program. A media Evaluator, says, “My volunteer title would be hope for the future. I firmly believe that our students need education for the future to better their decision making and prepare them while educating them in the present and reminding them about the past. How are we going to support the least among us? How are we going to make decisions that would benefit the lives of everyone included?”

Guidance is key in a children’s lives. Children are dependent and look up to superiors to gain insight and knowledge in order to help them figure out their goals. With the help and guidance of YG leaders and helpers, students are able to fully engage in their field and work hard to achieve state conference and further goals. Evaluators and Volunteers give students advice, confidence, Amanda Puent says, “YG is important for students because it provides real work experience in a space that allows students across the state and from different backgrounds to come together. Whether they want to become a lawyer or a senator or something different it provides a space to understand how the legislative government works.”

Having a group of adults who are passionate about helping students form a future for themselves to become new leaders of their generation and to be involved in their Democracy and world is one heck of an advantage. Delegates are able to place themselves in real world scenarios and use their knowledge for the better.

District 2 and 7 Conference YMCA Texas Youth and Government2025-11-15T13:07:19-06:00November 15th, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Declaration Documentary Project: Exclusive Opportunity for YMCA Youth and Government Students and Alumni

Exclusive Opportunity for YMCA Youth and Government Students and Alumni

Part of a nationwide documentary film project

Valuable activity to include on your college or professional resume

Declaration is a documentary film produced by Billboard-Chart-Topping pianist Lara Downes to commemorate the United States’ 250th birthday in 2026.

As part of the project, she’ll conduct an exclusive performance and workshop for YMCA Youth & Government students and alumni that will be filmed for the movie.

Only 30 spots are available.

When: Wednesday, June 18, at 1pm

Where: KMFA Radio’s Draylen Mason Studios (41 Navasota St)

How to Participate:

Register here
Listen to these musical works (1 hour)
Reflect on what they inspire in you
Choose from the themes of “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” to reflect on in-depth
Create your own artistic interpretation. NOTE: respond in any artistic way that feels true to you. Your creation can be:
1. - A poem or essay
  - A drawing, photo, painting, or song
  - A short video
  - A song, dance, or spoken word performance
  - Anything else you dream up
Attend the workshop
Share your creation – participating students may be featured in the film

This is a valuable resume-builder.

Deadline to register is Friday, June 13, 2025.

Email Sean Doles, YMCA Public Affairs Officer, at [email protected] with any questions.

CLICK HERE to complete the Declaration Project Application

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-06-12T12:37:03-05:00June 12th, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

FINE PRINT SAVES LIVES!: THE UPS AND DOWNS OF THE “NUTTY NEGLIGENCE” TRIAL

The Glenda Dawson H.S. delegation (District 3) defending the restaurant.

By: Malcolm Hodge
Glenda Dawson High School

Austin, TX – Much of the time, when we carry out tasks that we have years of experience with, we tend to ignore the text that we consider “less important”, whether that be on the bottom of a run-of-the-mill sign-up sheet, label of a beloved food, or a wordy workplace memo. Usually this does not prove to be dangerous or have detrimental consequences, but these oversights can certainly be catastrophic.

Take this year’s trial court case, alliteratively referred to as “Nutty Negligence”. In the case, a single mother sued a restaurant for preparing a delivery meal which contained trace amounts of

peanuts (which her daughter was allergic to). The decision of the case was often contingent on the varied importance assigned to fine print; there was an addendum to the order placed on the fact that there was a small alteration to the packaging of the fatal ingredient, reading “May contain peanuts”, and the fact that an addendum was placed on the online order asking specifically not to contain peanuts. However, the fine print on the packaging had just recently begun to appear, and the note asking not to add peanut products was not placed in the “allergies” section of the order (which was placed through a third-party platform).

This morning as well as yesterday, courts have seen different verdicts from the same team, as certain delegations placed varied emphasis on many of the numerous thought-provoking points of their arguments.

Most recently at the state Capitol, the Glenda Dawson H.S. trial court team was able to absolve the restaurant of liability for the daughter’s death through a combination of clever testimonies, witty objections, and consistent examinations. This victory, however, was long-awaited. “Did we win?!”, exclaimed one shocked student. Overall, watching the litigation of “Nutty Negligence” was an invigorating, entertaining, and at-times humorous sight

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T09:16:25-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Visiting the Capitol Gift Shop

By Kimberly Damian
Bob Hope School

Let’s think about when you enter the capitol, you wonder if the gift shop have good gifts or not.

We want to believe that the gift shop has great stuff. Let me rest your minds, they have great gifts for your friends or lovers. The gift shop have necklaces that say names or they say yo quier, or mi amor. They have plush animals, such as dogs, giraffe, and so many more. They sell shirts and caps whether they are my style or not I think I would get it for if my shirt got small or damaged. The gift shop at the Texas State Capitol in Austin is a treasure love of unique souvenirs and memorable that captures the essences of Texas rich history story

Moreover, the gift shop places a strong emphasis on supporting local artisans and businesses. Many of the products available are made by local craftsmen, ensuring that each purchase not only serves as a memento but also supports the local economy. This commitment to local craftsmanship is evident in the quality and uniqueness of the items available, from hand-painted ornaments to gourmet Texan snacks. For visitors, this means they can take home a piece of Texas that is not only meaningful but also authentically representative of the state’s culture and creativity.

In conclusion, the gift shop at the Texas State Capitol in Austin is more than just a place to buy souvenirs; it is a gateway to experiencing and celebrating the unique spirit of Texas. Through its diverse product offerings and support of local artisans, the shop provides visitors with a tangible connection to the state’s history and culture. Whether you are looking for a keepsake to remember your visit or a gift for someone special, the Capitol gift shop is sure to have something that captures the heart and soul of Texas.

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T09:06:04-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

YAG at ACC

Gabriel Lara
Austin High School

This Friday, February 28th, the YMCA Youth and Government District court delegates gathered at Austin Community College’s Highland campus for a day of debate and competition. I had the pleasure of joining them on this expedition and witnessing multiple trials. What really intrigued me though was the building itself.

According to the Austin Community College website, the Highland campus was actually a commercial mall. At first glance I couldnt imagine that the facilities would be refined and modern, but they were exactly that. When someone thinks of the word “Community college,” they most likely picture a rundown project, and that’s probably the last stop they want to get off at. But ACC was the exact opposite.

Other delegates and I were welcomed by state-of-the-art infrastructure, and there were many accessible areas to work and communicate with other delegates. I was particularly impressed with the availability of private working areas from study rooms to quiet seating areas.

The area I found most interesting was the 4000 building where we ate lunch. This was the only area that somewhat resembled an old mall. There was a nice indoor plaza with many tables and chairs to eat at. There were remnants of the old mall such as trees and escalators. These remnants gave the whole area a nostalgic ambiance and made it very welcoming and inviting. I had the pleasure of speaking with a YMCA evaluator. Cynthia Soliz was very pleased with the facilities being offered to YAG and its delegates. She told me “as a native Austinite I would never have guessed that the Highland Mall would have been renovated into such a nice campus”. ACC was a great place to host youth and government and ensured that everybody had an exceptional state conference experience.

The area I found most interesting was the 4000 building

want to get off at.

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T08:57:58-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Kalahari Chaos

By: Emily Ramirez
Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet

On Friday, after the first day of competition, delegates returned to Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, only to face long delays before being allowed back to their rooms. Many delegates and advisors, exhausted from the day’s events, sat or lay on the floor, removing their shoes and attempting to rest while waiting for clearance to go upstairs. The situation became increasingly frustrating as hours passed with no clear communication.

Eventually, Missy Garcia, the Program Director, sent a notification through the Yapp app, announcing, “You’re officially released to your free night!” However, despite this announcement, advisors briefly continued to hold delegates downstairs before finally allowing them to return to their rooms.

Ultimately, this created a stampede of students waiting by the stairs and escalators. According to the Kalahari Resort website, the situation may have violated fire safety policies due to the sheer size of the crowd. As the delegates were eventually released, many rushed toward the escalators and stairs in a chaotic scene. Exits became completely blocked, creating a potential fire hazard. Some individuals were even seen running up the escalator intended for downward traffic, further adding to the disorder.

The unexpected delay and subsequent rush created a stressful and exhausting experience for many attendees. The lack of clear instructions and crowd control led to frustration, and the fire safety concerns raised serious questions about event management. In conclusion, future state conferences held at the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions may need to implement better crowd control measures and strategic scheduling to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T08:41:54-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

GETTING INTO LEGE: A QUICK GUIDE AND TIPS ON YG LEGISLATIVE

Texas YMCA Youth and Government Legislative Delegates in their second hearing at the Senate Chamber.

By: Dylan Nguyen

Woodrow Wilson ECHS

Austin, TX – One of Youth and Government’s four primary departments is the Texas YMCA Youth and Government Legislative. People participate in a legislative body, identify issues, draft bills, debate them, and present them. Legislative members draft a bill and conduct research to refine their performance in front of the conference.

In order to decide which bills will be forwarded to the state, they must pass stringent hearing committees at the District Conference. In these committee hearings, the author of a bill starts with their opening remarks where they have 3 minutes to elaborate on their bill and ultimately persuade delegates to be in favor of the bill. Preceding this, Delegates ask the bill author questions regarding their bill during a short period of question and answer. Following the Q&A session, the delegates engage in a debate of opposition or agreement. In order to demonstrate their support for the bill, two delegates speak as proponents and two delegates speak as opponents. The amendment phase follows, during which delegates revise the bill that is already on the table to include any necessary changes. The bill’s author concludes with closing remarks following the Amendment Period, and the caucus votes on whether to move the bill forward or not. If a delegate’s bill makes it to the state conference, the bills are then separated into either House or Senate bills where they then are heard in a first committee, advance to a chamber, and eventually sent to the Youth Governor.

Q&A with Legislative Delegates

Delegates’ Favorite Part of Being in Legislative: “Being able to speak and talk on a bill”

-Delegate Truc Le, District 4

Delegate Grayson Carlson, District 3, is a part of the Senate chamber and mentions that “the ability to debate, the fast pace, and procedures of legislative” is what keeps him intrigued.

“Students building bills, doing research, and making solutions to problems”

-Parent Advisor Meg Cotter’lynch

The diversity of thoughts and perspectives in legislative is Delegate Mason Wakefield’s favorite part.

Challenges Legislative Delegates face: “Growing Confidence”

-Delegate Levi Jenkins, District 3

Forgetting what she was going to say is a big challenge for Delegate Truc Le

Preparing for questions is a big challenge for delegates, according to Parent Advisor Meg Cotter’lynch.

Tips and Things to Look out for:

“Self-doubt is a big thing to look out for, just believe in yourself”

-Delegate Levi Jenkins

“Don’t be afraid to speak”

“Add value to the committee. don’t go up just to say something”

-Delegate Mabel Cotter

“Preparation is really important”

-Parent Advisor Meg Cotter’lynch

“Just jump into the deep end and dive into it” “It starts scary but you’ll ease into it”

-Delegate Mason Wakerfield

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T08:33:23-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Dive Into Democracy: A Rookie’s Guide to YG

By Charlie Alfred
Woodrow Wilson High School

Joining the Texas Youth and Government (YG) program is an exciting opportunity for young people to engage in civic education, develop leadership skills, and make a positive impact on their communities. As a rookie, you might feel a mix of excitement and nervousness, but don’t worry—this guide will help you navigate your first steps in the program.

What is Texas youth and government

Texas Youth and Government is a statewide program that allows students to simulate the roles of government officials, including legislators, judges,

attorneys, and more. Participants engage in mock trials, legislative sessions, and other activities that mirror the functions of real government. The program aims to foster a deeper understanding of the democratic process and encourage active citizenship.

YAG Sections

Legislative Section: Participants draft, debate, and vote on bills, simulating the legislative process. This section helps students understand how laws are made and the importance of effective communication and negotiation.

Judicial Section: Students take on roles as attorneys and judges in mock trials. This section provides insight into the judicial system and helps develop critical

thinking and public speaking skills.

Media Section: Participants act as journalists, covering the events of the Youth and Government conferences. This section emphasizes the role of media in democracy and reporting skills.

State Affairs Forum: This section allows students to discuss and debate current issues, providing a platform for thoughtful dialogue and policy analysis.

Tips For Rookies

Be Prepared: Familiarize yourself with the rules and procedures of your section. Practice your speeches, arguments, or reports to build confidence.

Stay Confident: It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember that everyone starts as a rookie. As many veterans suggest, “Fake it till you make it”1.

Confidence will come with experience.

Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from advisors and veteran participants. They can offer valuable insights and support.

Engage Fully: Participate actively in all activities. The more you engage, the more you will learn and grow.

Reflect and Improve: After each session or conference, take time to reflect on your performance. Identify areas for improvement and set goals for your next participation.

Conclusion

Texas Youth and Government is a fantastic platform for young people to develop essential skills and gain a deeper understanding of the democratic process. As a rookie, embrace the learning experience, stay confident, and make the most of every opportunity. Welcome to the journey of becoming an informed and active citizen!

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T08:11:58-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments