State YMCA of Maine Youth and Government 

A unique experience in civic engagement, Youth and Government® is a statewide program that provides Maine high school students the opportunity to learn about and participate directly in the democratic process. Each fall, students form school or community group delegations to elect leadership, join committees, draft legislation, and understand the role they will take on during the Youth and Government Weekend, a three-day conference held in the Augusta State House.

Participants develop critical thinking skills, learn to articulate their beliefs, and engage in constructive debate around the issues that affect Maine’s people and communities. These skills give them the foundation for becoming involved citizens and the knowledge that passing legislation isn’t as easy as it seems! 

It all comes together at the Youth and Government Weekend, typically held in November. The three-day conference provides the opportunity to practice leadership skills, experience the legislative process, and network with other student leaders from around Maine talking about the issues they see facing the State of Maine and its future.

Youth and Government is a national YMCA program, empowering students to learn about and experience government policies and methodologies firsthand.

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