Empowering Teens, Strengthening Communities
Youth & Government is dedicated to transforming lives through civic engagement and education. We empower teens to find their voice and develop the leadership skills to be active and engaged servant leaders.
Join a Delegation
If you are interested in joining a delegation, please fill out this interest form.
Follow Us
Follow the YMCA of Greater Seattle's Youth Legislature Teams on Instagram.
Youth Legislature
Youth Legislature participants work all year to learn parliamentary procedure and write their own legislation that is later presented to other delegates during a state-wide conference. Teens develop confidence, hone skills in writing, research and public speaking, and better understand their power as citizens in a democratic society. More than 400 youth from Washington participate in the conference each year!
This program is open to students in grades 8-12.
Delegations and Meetings
Delegations meet weekly, both in person and virtually, and are open to all teens.
In the 2024-25 school year, the YMCA of Greater Seattle is hosting three delegations. Contact your local representative to learn about meetings and more!
Bellevue and Coal Creek Ys
Contact: Erika Mendoza
Dale Turner and Northshore Ys
Contact: Trevor Johnson
Matt Griffin Y
Contact: Candler Curtis
Affordable for All
Every youth deserves the benefits of quality programs, and family financial situations should not be a barrier to this. Financial assistance is available. For Y members, your program scholarship is already attached to your Y account and available upon registration. For community members, please fill out this form and choose 'program subsidy only' under membership type.
We also offer payment plans and opportunities to fundraise.
2024-2025 Delegation Fee
$150 Y member or $195 community member
2024-2025 Conference Fee
$400 (Participants must be registered for a delegation to register for the conference.)
State-Wide Conference
The 2025 Washington State Conference program will be held from May 7 to May 10, 2025, in Olympia, Washington.
Learn more about the Washington State Youth Legislature program.
Mock Trial
The YMCA of Greater Seattle does not host a mock trial team, however many local schools and organizations in our King and south Snohomish county service area do! Please learn more via the Washington Youth & Government website.
Stay Engaged with the Y
BOLD & GOLD
Boys, Girls, and All Gender Outdoor Leadership (BOLD & GOLD) expeditions inspire youth ages 11 to 18 to be their most courageous and confident selves as they explore some of the most beautiful and natural places in the Pacific Northwest.
Global Programs
Teen Global Programs are designed to develop international understanding, leadership skills, and cultural competency as well as provide service learning opportunities for teens ages 14-17.