Texas Youth and Government is excited to introduce a new Advocacy Program, a five-session virtual series designed to empower high school teens with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective advocates for change in their communities. After a year in Youth and Government honing your civic knowledge and mastering your public speaking skills, it’s time to take these skills and passions into the real world by practicing what you’ve learned and discovering more about local advocacy with this program.

This interactive program will provide students with an in-depth understanding of civic engagement, policy change, and grassroots advocacy. Through engaging virtual sessions, participants will explore how local organizations function, learn how to navigate policy-making processes, and develop the tools needed to drive meaningful social impact. By the end of the program, teens will design and refine a personal advocacy project, tailored to address a specific need in their community. With guidance and mentorship from YMCA staff, they will develop actionable steps to implement their initiative, equipping them with the tools necessary to make a lasting impact in their local and statewide communities.

Teens participating in this program are required to attend five virtual workshops, held weekly from 5:00 to 6:00 PM. Each session builds on the last, guiding students through the key steps of advocacy—from identifying community needs to making a real impact. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, participants will gain the skills and confidence to become effective advocates for change. Check out the full schedule below and get ready to make a difference!

• April 16th – Session 1 – What is Advocacy?
  • Teens will explore the fundamentals of advocacy, learning how individuals and groups can drive meaningful change in their communities.
• April 23rd – Session 2 – Where are the needs in your community?
  • Teens will assess challenges in their communities, identify areas requiring advocacy, and begin developing their project focus.
• April 30th – Session 3 – Who are the key stakeholders and allies that can support your advocacy efforts?
  • Teens will identify important decision-makers, community leaders, and organizations that can help advance their advocacy goals.
• May 7th – Session 4 – How do you tell your story?
  • Teens will learn how to craft compelling narratives to effectively communicate their advocacy message to inspire action through different mediums.
• May 14th – Session 5 – When can you make an impact?
  • Teens will explore the best timing and strategies for implementing their advocacy projects and creating change.

Are you ready to take your leadership to the next level and advocate for your community? This opportunity is for motivated teens who are passionate about their Y experience and eager to make a difference in their communities. Before applying, please consider the following criteria:

• Must be a current YMCA member or program participant
• Must be mature, motivated, and comfortable sharing their Y stories
• Interested in serving as advocates and leaders in their community
• Passionate about representing the Y
• Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are encouraged to apply

Ready to take the next step? Apply now and become a YMCA Texas Youth Advocate!

Speak directly with your District Director or contact Youth and Government Program Director Megan Dern