Future Voters: For Teens

You do not have to wait until you can vote to begin participating in civic life. These programs give middle and high school students opportunities to practice leadership, explore government, discuss public issues, and experience decision-making firsthand.

YMCA Youth and Government

YMCA Youth and Government gives middle and high school students a chance to experience civic life firsthand. Depending on the programs available in your state, you might write and debate legislation, argue a court case, explore journalism, or serve in another government-related role. Most students participate through a delegation at their school or local YMCA. The YMCA can help you find an existing delegation—or learn how to start one with other interested students.

Find or Start a YMCA Youth and Government Delegation

American Legion Boys State and ALA Girls State

Boys State and Girls State are immersive summer programs for students who have completed their junior year of high school. Participants create and operate a mock state government, campaign for office, hold elections, debate issues, and learn how local and state government work. Application and selection procedures vary by state and usually involve a school counselor, educator, local American Legion post, or American Legion Auxiliary unit. Two participants from each state program may be selected to continue to Boys Nation or Girls Nation in Washington, D.C.; students do not apply to the national programs separately.

 Find Your American Legion Boys State Program

 Find Your ALA Girls State Program

United States Senate Youth Program

The United States Senate Youth Program offers qualifying high school juniors and seniors an intensive introduction to the federal government. Two students from each state are selected to attend Washington Week, where delegates learn about the legislative, executive, and judicial branches and meet national leaders and public servants. Applicants must hold a qualifying elected or appointed student leadership position, and application procedures and deadlines vary by state. Start by reviewing the eligibility requirements and speaking with your principal, counselor, or social studies teacher.

 How to Apply for the United States Senate Youth Program

Levin Center Civics Simulation

Would you like to investigate a public problem, question witnesses, examine evidence, and experience how legislative oversight works? The Levin Center offers a free classroom simulation in which students take on the roles of legislators, witnesses, and members of the media. Because this is a teacher-led classroom experience, consider sharing it with a civics, government, or U.S. history teacher at your school.

 Share the Levin Center Civics Simulation With a Teacher

International and Diplomatic Simulations

Model United Nations

Model United Nations gives students an opportunity to explore international relations and global problem-solving. Participants represent different countries in simulated United Nations committees, research international issues, deliver speeches, negotiate with other delegates, and work together to develop resolutions. Through Model UN, students can strengthen their public speaking, critical thinking, research, collaboration, and diplomatic skills. UNA-USA provides information about Model UN opportunities, local chapters, conferences, and resources for getting started.

 Explore Model United Nations With UNA-USA