California YMCA Youth & Government

California YMCA Youth and Government has provided outstanding statewide educational and social experiences for over 70 years. The YMCA is a cause-driven organization that focuses on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. California YMCA Youth & Government is an integral part of the YMCA movement. Our programs, run through partnering YMCAs, schools and youth organizations, have served over 100,000 students over the past 15 years alone. We now engage over 3,300 high school youth and close to 1,000 middle school youth each year from across the state, in programs emphasizing leadership and civic involvement. Our efforts build, strengthen and encourage life assets and positive character traits. 

The hands-on programs of California YMCA Youth & Government provide positive opportunities and experiences for youth. Participants strengthen their communities by becoming active and responsible contributors who are inspired to lead, and are empowered to create meaningful change. California YMCA Youth & Government prides itself in offering the following skills to help youth transition and succeed with ease from middle school through college graduation.