Students won’t just read about government; they will be the government!

Grades 9–12

Step into the role of a legislator, attorney, judge, journalist, or elected leader and experience government by doing, not just learning about it.

The YMCA’s High School Youth & Government program is a student-led leadership program where teens develop confidence, public speaking skills, critical thinking, and civic engagement while exploring how government works. Throughout the year, delegates work together to research current issues, debate ideas, and prepare for the Indiana YMCA Youth & Government Conference, where students from across the state come together to run a fully student-led model state government.

Whether you’re passionate about politics, journalism, law, leadership, photography, filmmaking, or simply want to build confidence and make new friends, there’s a place for you in Youth & Government. No prior experience is necessary, just a willingness to learn, collaborate, and have your voice heard.

Current Meeting Site:

Jordan YMCA

• Aug. 18 – Kickoff & Orientation (Jordan Delegation)
• Nov. 14 – Organization Day
• Feb. 19–21 – High School Conference

Contact Anders for more info [email protected] or 317-418-9439

Y-Empowerment is a comprehensive youth development program that combines academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, leadership development, and mentorship to prepare young people for success in school and life. The program provides targeted instruction in Mathematics and English Language Arts (ELA) while developing critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills through experiential learning and real-world application.

Programming also includes character development, financial literacy, career exploration, health and wellness, community engagement, and team-building activities. Aligned with the YMCA’s pillars of Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility, Y-Empowerment equips participants with the academic, social, and leadership competencies needed to become confident, responsible, and engaged members of their communities.

Young Men of Distinction (YMOD)** is a character and leadership development initiative designed to equip young men with the knowledge, discipline, and practical skills needed to thrive academically, socially, and personally. Through mentorship, experiential learning, meaningful dialogue, community engagement, and recreational activities, participants strengthen leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, accountability, and service while building positive relationships with peers and mentors. The program creates a supportive environment where young men develop the confidence and character to become responsible leaders in their schools, families, and communities.

2026–2027 YMOD Schedule:
YMOD meets on the **third Saturday of each month** (excluding December)

• September 19, 2026
• October 17, 2026
• November 21, 2026
• January 16, 2027
• February 20, 2027
• March 20, 2027
• April 17, 2027
• May 15, 2027