YOUTH & GOVERNMENT
The Jerome Burke Foundation has partnered with the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago to support their Youth & Government program — investing in tomorrow’s leaders today.
WHAT IS YOUTH & GOVERNMENT?
Youth & Government cultivates the next generation of civic leaders by immersing high school students in the Illinois state legislative process. Through this mock government club, students gain experience in navigating democratic systems, negotiating with peers, and making their voices heard.
HOW IT WORKS
Starting in the fall, students take on roles of Illinois state government, gaining hands on experience in the responsibility of their chosen roles within one of the following tracks. In addition to in-person regional sessions, all participants gather at a statewide General Assembly in Springfield, IL, every March.
Youth & Government Tracks
LEGISLATIVE TRACK
Students create and refine bills on issues that affect their communities and daily lives.
JUDICIAL TRACK
Students delve into case material to represent one of two sides of appellate criminal law cases: the State prosecutor or the convicted defendant, authoring bench memos and preparing to argue their cases.
ADDITIONAL TRACKS
Students can select roles that explore the responsibilities of the Executive Branch, press, and lobbyists.
LEARN MORE & SIGNUP