Looking for information about 2024 Changemakers applications? Find it here:
YMCA of the USA is offering students in grades 9-12 an opportunity to address critical issues and needs in their local communities with three opportunities: Changemakers, Youth Advisory Council and Youth Voice Teams.
Changemakers Projects
Applications due April 7, 2023
The Y is calling on all high school students around the country to propose a YMCA Changemakers Project that addresses a critical issue or need in their local communities.
Each Changemakers Project must be led by two (2) student Project Leaders. One project per state (and DC/PR) will be selected to attend the final 3 days of the YMCA Youth Governors Conference in Washington, DC from June 14-16, 2023. At the conference, the two Project Leaders from each state will present their proposal to the members of our YMCA Youth Governors Association, who will choose 3 projects to each receive $5,000 in funding.
Who Can Apply for Changemakers:
All high school students across the country (Grades 9-12) working in teams of two (2) Project Leaders.
Apply at ymca.quorum.us/changemakers
Youth Advisory Council
Applications due April 7, 2023
Y-USA’s Youth Advisory Council advises and supports our senior leadership and national board on
emerging issues, opportunities, programs, and priorities to help the Y remain relevant at the local, state, national and global level.
The council is made up of 20 young people ages 15-24 representing their home communities, local YMCAs, and the full scope of the Y’s youth development programs and work.
Our inaugural council will be selected in April 2023, and convene virtually starting with training and onboarding later this spring.
Who Can Apply for Youth Advisory Council:
Open to all YMCA members, program participants and alumni, volunteers, and staff ages 15-24.
Apply at ymca.quorum.us/yac
Youth Voice Teams
YMCA Youth Voice Teams work to address specific youth-identified issues directly connected to their communities or areas of interest. This focused advocacy experience provides a unique opportunity to elevate and de-polarize topics and conversations that are relevant and critical to the lives of young people. Each team, consisting of 16-20 students selected to represent a distinct community or issue area, will train together virtually before traveling to Washington, DC to meet and engage with policymakers, partners, and practitioners.
Who Can Apply for Youth Voice Teams:
Applications for teams are announced at different times throughout the year and are open to a variety of youth applicants depending on the team’s focus.
Learn More at ymca.quorum.us/yvt
Application deadlines vary by team
