NC Youth & Government Advisor Roles

The role of the Advisor is equal parts mentor, teacher, and friend. This job is a very important one in Youth & Government and, as such, is also very rewarding. Our advisors see how North Carolina YMCA Youth & Government impacts their delegates firsthand.

Program Resources

Benefits of Starting a Youth & Government Club

Considering starting a club at your school? There are many benefits to starting a club.

Adult Advisors

Spend time with students and create an environment of learning.
Build healthy, positive relationships with students.
Work closely with a small group creating an opportunity to educate and nurture potential. Clubs must adhere to a 1:12 advisor to student ratio for all functions, including club meetings.

Student Participants

Gain understanding of formal and informal government structures.
Participate actively in the legislative, judicial, lobbyist and/or press process
Become aware of societal issues and their resolutions.
Develop confidence in and dedication to the democratic process.
Learn participative leadership skills.
Enhance communication skills.
Listen to and learn to respect varying viewpoints.
Learn accountability and respect for others’ rights.
Work alongside and learn from older, experienced students.
Apply moral and ethical valuing processes to public policy making
Gain exposure to potential career opportunities.
Gain hands-on experience with parliamentary procedure, bill research, bill writing, judicial brief writing, public speaking training, position paper writing and debate training.

How to Start and Sustain a Club

Students, Teachers and Principals

Collaborate with a local YMCA, or start a club at your school with assistance from the State Office.

State Office

Provides vision, leadership and support for your local club. The State Office is a resource for you to use for materials, meetings with school or YMCA staff, sharing of ideas, and much more.