Youth and Government (Grades 6-8)

The Connecticut YMCA Youth & Government program gives students the opportunity to step into the roles of legislators and leaders, debate real issues, write bills, and experience the democratic process firsthand.

This hands-on civic learning program allows you to explore how government works — not as a spectator, but as an active citizen. Students elect their own leaders, research and debate their own ideas, and support policies that reflect their values and vision for their communities.

The program culminates in a state-level conference where students gather in Hartford, CT to debate their bills on the floor of the legislature at the Connecticut State Capitol.