Future Civic Leaders

Leadership programs for preteens and teens

River Crossing YMCA is proud to offer a new Future Civic Leaders program for youth in grades 6-12.

Program launches September, 2026.

Model UN (MUN)

Introduces students to global issues and cultures through hands-on experiences gaining engaging in conflict resolution, public speaking and coalition building. Available in select regions of PA and NJ

Model UN webpage

YMCA Youth & Government (YAG)

YAG programs transform classrooms into legislatures and courtrooms. Students take on real-world roles developing critical thinking, public speaking and leadership skills.

Both programs include:

✔️ Participation in the Youth & Government program September-April
✔️ Two-month teen membership to the Y

Who qualifies:

✔️ Youth and teens in grades 6-12.

Youth and Government Program Details

As part of the Youth Civic Engagement program students will:

Learn about systems of government
Engage with local elected leaders
Advocate for positive changes in their community
Participate in Model United Nations
- Introduce students to global issues and cultures through hands on experience
- Students serve as an ambassador and negotiate for their country’s priorities in a model UN
Participate in Youth & Government
- Students actively participate in the democratic process through drafting legislation, debate, and elections
- Gain a deeper understanding of local and state-wide issues and how to solve them