YMCA Youth Advocacy Academy

Turn Your Passion Into Action

The YMCA Youth Advocacy Academy offers a dynamic, hands-on learning experience for students ready to turn their passion for issues into meaningful action. Through immersive workshops, hands-on learning, and direct engagement with the policymaking process, participants won't just just learn about advocacy. They will gain deep and meaningful experience with it.

Why Join the Youth Advocacy Academy?

Real Impact, Real Skills

You won't just learn about advocacy, you'll DO advocacy. Working on actual legislation and community issues that matter to them, students develop practical skills in: policy research, public speaking and coalition building.

Connections That Count

Students work directly with YMCA leaders, government affairs professionals, elected officials, and professional advocates. These aren't just networking opportunities, they're mentorship opportunities that can shape your teen's future.

Leadership Experience That Stands Out

College admissions officers and employers recognize authentic leadership experience. YAA participants graduate with concrete accomplishments, professional references, and a portfolio of real advocacy work.

Program Structure and Benefits

The YMCA has been empowering young people for over 175 years. The YMCA Center for Youth Voice continues this tradition by giving teens the tools, connections, and platform to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

Kick-Off Workshop

Half-day in-person experience in October where students connect with fellow advocates from across Minnesota and begin their advocacy journey.

Monthly Virtual Sessions

90-minute focused workshops on advocacy themes including policy research, public speaking, and campaign planning designed to accommodate busy schedules.

Day at the Capitol

Students present their work directly to legislators, witnessing government in action and experiencing the real impact of advocacy firsthand.

Shadow a Lobbyist

Exclusive opportunity through partnership with Minnesota Governmental Relations Council, providing insider perspective on professional advocacy.

Celebration

End-of-year showcase celebrating student accomplishments with family, community leaders, and program partners. 

Application Details

The application for the 2026-2027 cohort is open! 

The competitive selection process will only accept up to 60 students statewide.

Program Fee (due upon registration if accepted, no deposit required to apply): $349

Apply Here

Questions? Reach out to YouthVoice@ymcamn.org.