Purpose and Objectives
YMCA Advocacy Day provides Youth In Government students the opportunity to further develop their leadership and communication skills and initiate discussions with the leaders of Missouri State Government. Students will have an opportunity to share their thoughts with YMCA representatives and Missouri legislators on issues affecting all youth in Missouri as well as in their communities.

YMCA Advocacy Day is designed to:

1. Increase understanding of how to effectively communicate with government and community leaders.
2. Organize clear views, ideas, and opinions regarding youth-related issues currently being addressed by the Missouri General Assembly.
3. Hold discussions with leaders in the Missouri General Assembly on a variety of issues pertaining to youth and their communities.
4. Develop an increased understanding of the needs, responsibilities, and opportunities within state government.
5. Work together with other students and YMCA representatives to organize and present a clear stance on issues facing youth and the YMCA.

Dates and Schedule
YMCA Advocacy Day will be held in April 7-8, 2009, in Jefferson City, Missouri. Please click on the link below for a schedule of events.

• Schedule (PDF)

Registration
To register for YMCA Advocacy Day, interested students need to email Ken Hussey at khussey@jcymca.org with their name, delegation, and contact information. All YIG students are eligible to attend, however we are limited to 15 students.

Cost
$0 -- there is no program fee. The Missouri YMCA State Alliance will pay for your hotel room and dinner. However, you need to bring money for breakfast and lunch for Wednesday, April 8.

Transportation
Transportation is not provided by YIG, so students will need to get to and from Jefferson City on their own. Students should check with their local YMCA to see if anyone from there is attending.