Students in youth government immerse themselves in debate issues affecting citizens in their state, propose legislation, and engage in other civic discussions through the YMCA. The YMCA has the help of many volunteers that help make this possible. Tylen Blades, a YMCA volunteer of seven years, shares his experience of his first year of volunteering with Youth and Government.
After being asked why he volunteered this year, Mr. Blades responded with “My desire to explore the options that the YMCA has to offer.” After praising the talent of the members in all branches in the program, he expresses how eye opening his experience with the program has been. As a Youth and Government volunteer, Mr. Blades ensures that students arrive safely at their destinations, have all their required supplies, while he is there for any questions that may arise. He was then asked what his favorite part of being a volunteer was so far. Mr. Blades revealed that he works in youth development, which is something that he sees in a program like Youth and Government. He describes how Youth and Government pushes teens to go out of their comfort zone and try new things, and more specifically things that “Branch off topics that they are already interested in.” These delegates have the opportunity to connect with others and expand their knowledge through the various opportunities that Youth and Government provides.