Youth and Government
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303 Roma Ave. NW
Albuquerque NM 871o2
Phone: (505) 241-9405
"Democracy must be learned by each generation"
"The purpose of the program is to bring the workings of state government alive to students. It creates an opportunity for students to discuss current state issues with state administrators, elected officials, and students from high schools and YMCA's throughout the state.
Each conference is led by teens elected to office by their fellow delegates. Each state provides facilities and volunteers from various state departments who act as resources for the students while they debate the issues. The volunteers help guide the students through mock committee meetings. Students debate and vote on the bills that their fellow delegates have written and presented. Bills that pass in committee are then taken to the floor of the House or Senate for full debate and vote" (www.ymcapa.org).
In New Mexico, the Youth and Government organization is led by individual teachers or school administrators who volunteer to act as site based advisors while under the guidance of a state director through the New Mexico YMCA organization.
There are 6 ways to participate in the NMYMCA Youth and Government organization. Students can join either the legislative branch, judicial branch, executive branch, forum, or the press corps (print and video). Student may also apply to become part of the Governor's Cabinet.
