Blog: Civic Opportunities for Teens

I recently learned that the South Pasadena/San Marino YMCA has some great civic programs for teenagers. Did you know that beyond recreational programs, you can find programs like the Model UN and Model Legislature & Court through the Y?

In Model UN, students learn about current affairs, politics, economics and diplomacy through weekly meetings. Delegates give speeches, debate international issues and participate in committees. The program all builds to fruition in May, when delegates from around the state meet to establish their own student-run United Nations.

The YMCA also offers a youth and government program. If you’d like to see your child learn public speaking, organization, problem solving and time management skills, this is a good choice. Model Legislature & Court is a statewide youth education program that includes more than 2,000 high school students in a nine-month experience.

Teen delegates learn to write bills, select governmental positions for role play, attend statewide training conferences and run for elected offices.

To read more about the programs or read about other community amenities and programs in the San Gabriel Valley, visit our website blog.