Youth & Government Volunteer Advisor

Job Details Job Location Youth Development - Olympia, WA Secondary Job Location(s) Association Office - Olympia, WA; Middle School Programs - Olympia, WA Position Type Seasonal Description SUMMARY: YMCA Youth & Government Youth Legislature is designed to educate and civically engage teens in grades 8-12 about our State Legislative process by giving them a hands-on experience. During delegation meetings you will be mentoring Teen Delegates to research and write their own piece of legislation, learn about parliamentary procedure, debate skills, practice speaking and writing persuasively, and encouraging them to take on various roles for the Youth Legislative Session the Spring. The culmination of the program occurs over four full days at the Washington YMCA Youth Legislature Session in Spring each year. Hundreds of delegates from around the state converge in Olympia to conduct their model youth legislature, debating bills, publishing a delegate newspaper, and electing Major Officers for the following year. OUR CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: • Mentor and guide a group of 8-12 graders about the democratic process, parliamentary process, debate, persuasive writing, and bill writing. • Attend mandatory State YAG Advisor trainings and meetings scheduled throughout the year. (some are virtual • Attend all or majority of Delegation meetings at the Association Office or previously confirmed location • This is an 8 month program from October - May, excluding holiday breaks. • Fall Schedule - Meets bi-weekly every Wednesday from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm • Spring Schedule - Meets weekly every Wednesday from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm • Use email communication to receive updates from the Lead Advisor and/or State Youth & Government offices and reply to necessary notifications in a timely manner. • Adhere to YMCA policies, rules, and objectives. • Lead by example among the Delegates and other Advisors • Uphold the YMCA mission and philosophy during all meetings and Youth Legislature • Support ratio of one adult to every ten Teen Delegates (1:10) at all Youth & Government activities on the local, district, and state level. • Be available for the all day for the 79th Youth Legislative Session - April 29 - May 2, 2026 Qualifications Being an Advisor for Youth Legislature is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Not only will you support in recruitment and lead a group of teens throughout the year in the Legislative Process, you will get to see their growth and be a part of state-wide community. Delegation Volunteer Advisor: • Advisors must be at least 21 years of age. (exceptions can be made for ages 18-20 based experience) • Experience or interest for civic engagement and leadership mentoring for teens. • Experience or interest in local, state, and national politics • Experience or interest in social justice • Must pass a background check to work with youth and teens Thank you for your interest! Apply tot his job