Want a Say in State Government, Iowa Youth? 2 Free Programs to Join

Are you an Iowa youth wanting to learn more about (or BE more involved in) state government?

Sign up for one of these programs through the end of May:

Youth Advisory Council

The State of Iowa Youth Advisory Council (SIYAC) gives Iowans ages 14-20 the chance to go behind the scenes on how government works.

The group takes 21 people, and opens communication between students, the governor, legislators, and other decision makers about policies and programs affecting youth and families.

The students also have the chance to advocate for issues and potential solutions that affect Iowa youth.

Members serve for two years and new members are selected every summer. There’s no cost to participate.

The program was started in 2001 by then-Gov. Tom Vilsack so he and legislators could know what was important to Iowa youth. Quarterly meetings are held in person and bimonthly meetings are held over Zoom.

For more information about SIYAC, including eligibility requirements, and to fill out the application, click here.

For questions, contact: Kayla ([email protected]) or (515)343-6412

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Iowa Youth Congress

Another program, the Iowa Youth Congress (IYC), works similarly.

It takes up to 100 Iowa high school students and gives those students the chance to learn about state government hands-on.

In the year-long program, students will have opportunities to learn how to use the legislative process for youth issues.

Some of what students learn includes public speaking, debate, problem-solving and leadership skills. Young people who go through the program regularly say IYC increased their interest in the government and how it works, which leads to them being more engaged.

The program was started in 2006 by the Iowa Department of Human Rights to get more people involved and represented in the state government process.

Like SIYAC, there are no participation fees, and members are required to attend regular meetings. For IYC, three of those meetings will be at the State Capitol in Des Moines.

For more information about IYC, including eligibility requirements, and to fill out the application, click here.

For questions, contact:  Davianna ([email protected]) or (515)343-6412

Nikoel Hytrek
5/16/23

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