Any students in grades 8-12 can join— no prior experience is required. Whether you're new to student leadership programs or already interested in government and public policy, this program is designed for all leaders. 

Delegates are student participants in this YMCA leadership program for teens. As a delegate, you will: 

• Research issues that matter to you
• Write your own bill or policy proposal
• Present and debate ideas with peers from across Washington 

Each spring, delegates attend a multi-day conference at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia. During this immersive youth government conference, students: 

• Take on roles as state legislators
• Debate and vote on student-written legislation
• Collaborate with peers from across Washington State

This experience is a cornerstone of civic engagement programs for teens. 

Youth and Government helps students develop essential leadership and life skills, including: 

• Public speaking and confidence
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Research and writing
• Leadership and teamwork
• Skills that support college readiness and future careers

The YMCA of Greater Seattle offers Youth and Government programs in King County and surrounding areas. When you express interest, we'll connect you with the delegation closest to you. 

Ready to get started? Fill out this interest form to join a teen leadership program near you! 

There are two primary fees: 

• Delegation Fee: Covers weekly meetings and local events
• Conference Fee: Covers participation in the Olympia conference, including transportation, lodging, and select meals. 

Yes! The Y is committed to ensuring all families have access to quality and enriching youth programs. If the fee for this program presents a challenge for your family, financial assistance is available. 

For Y members, your program assistance is already attached to your Y account and available upon registration. For community members, please drop by your local Y or call us at (206) 382-5022 to learn more. 

Students in grades 6-8 and 9-12 will engage with the legal system and in trial advocacy in a variety of roles, including attorneys and witnesses on both sides of a case, learning both theory and practice of trial practice. 

Participants will meet weekly to explore real-life case law. They will learn the various roles found in real-life courtrooms in preparation for taking on those same roles themselves at the Mock Trial Championship in Spring of 2027. Consistent participation in meetings and completion of occasional at-home assignments is required to compete on the Championship team. 

The YMCA of Greater Seattle is not offering any branch-based Mock Trial teams during the 2026-2027 season. Please contact Program Director, Chris Swanson, for more information on Mock Trial teams near you. 

We're here to help! 

Email: ygseattleyag@seattleymca.org