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.
Questions
If you have additional questions, please email ygseattleyag@seattleymca.org.
Join a Delegation
If you are interested in joining a delegation in the 2026-27 school year, please fill out this interest form.
Follow Us
Follow the YMCA of Greater Seattle's Youth Legislature Teams on Instagram.
Delegations and Meetings
Delegations meet weekly, both in person and virtually, and are open to all teens.
In the 2026-27 school year, the YMCA of Greater Seattle is hosting delegations at the following branches. Contact your local representative to learn about meetings and more!
- Bellevue Family YMCA: Desiree Johnson
- Coal Creek Family YMCA: Erika Mendoza
- Dale Turner Family YMCA: Colin Kinnaird
- Meredith Mathews East Madison YMCA: Nikita Love
- Northshore YMCA: Becky Cherry
- Sammamish Community YMCA: Edy Henderson
- Snoqualmie Valley YMCA: Zachary Wells
- West Seattle & Fauntleroy YMCA: Raymond Belleza
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.
2026-2027 Delegation Fee
- Y Members: $175
- Community Members: $225
2026-2027 Conference Fee
- $500
State-Wide Conference
The 2027 Washington State Conference program will be held from May 5 to May 8, 2027, in Olympia, Washington.
Learn more about the Washington State Youth Legislature program.
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Mock Trial
Students in Grades 6-8 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.
This program is open to students in Grades 6-8 and 9-12.
If you are interested in joining a team for the 2026-2027 school year, please fill out this Interest Form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can participate?
What is a Delegate?
What happens at the Youth Legislature Conference?
What skills are developed?
How do I join a delegation?
What are the program fees?
I cannot afford the full cost of the program. Is financial assistance available?
Who do I contact with questions?
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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.
Earth Service Corps
YMCA Earth Service Corps (YESC) is an innovative youth-led program that empowers students to take a hands-on role in creating a healthier environment in their schools, communities, and region while nurturing a respect for diversity within the natural world.