Young Civic Leaders Program

The Young Civic Leaders (YCL) Program is MassVOTE's flagship initiative dedicated to empowering and educating the next generation of civic leaders. Our program is designed for high school students from diverse backgrounds across Massachusetts, focusing on equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to become active and engaged citizens.

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Program Objectives

• Civic Education: Provide comprehensive education on the principles of democracy, the electoral process, and the importance of civic engagement.

• Leadership Development: Foster leadership skills through workshops, mentorship, and hands-on projects that allow students to apply what they've learned in real-world settings.

• Community Engagement: Encourage participants to actively engage with their communities through volunteer work, advocacy, and public speaking opportunities.

 

Key Components

1. Workshops and Seminars:

   • Interactive sessions on topics such as voting rights, public policy, and community organizing.

   • Guest speakers from various sectors, including government officials, activists, and educators.

2. Mentorship:

   • Pairing students with mentors who provide guidance, support, and insights into civic leadership and career development.

   • Regular check-ins and one-on-one meetings to discuss progress and goals.

3. Hands-On Projects:

   • Group projects that address local issues and encourage community involvement.

   • Opportunities to plan and execute events, such as voter registration drives and public forums.

4. Field Trips and Experiential Learning:

   • Visits to the Massachusetts State House, city council meetings, and other governmental institutions.

   • Participation in civic activities, such as attending rallies, town hall meetings, and legislative sessions.

5. Advocacy and Public Speaking:

   • Training on how to effectively advocate for causes and communicate with elected officials.

   • Practice in public speaking and presenting to diverse audiences.

 

Program Benefits

• Skill Development: Gain valuable skills in leadership, public speaking, project management, and teamwork.

• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with peers, mentors, community leaders, and policymakers.

• Civic Engagement: Become more informed and active participants in the democratic process.

• College and Career Readiness: Enhance your college applications and resumes with real-world experiences and accomplishments.

 

How to Apply

The Young Civic Leaders Program is open to high school students across Massachusetts who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

 

Apply here.

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For more information or to apply, please visit our website or contact us at info@massvote.org. Join us in shaping the future of our democracy!