To apply
Be a Changemaker: Join the 2024/2025 Youth Governance Program!
Youth Governance Program (YGP) Application Details:
Application Components: What you’ll need.
- Short-answer questions about objectives for participating in YGP.
- Written recommendation from an adult involved with the youth (e.g., teacher, guidance counselor, parent/caregiver/guardian, etc.)
Applicant Requirements: Check if this aligns with you!
- Dane County residents currently in grades 9-11 (who will be in grades 10-12 in fall of 2024).
- Ability to commit 6-8 hours per month for YGP responsibilities.
- Attendance at 2-3 weeknight meetings each month (virtually and in-person). Regular attendance is required.
- Most meetings start between 5:15 and 6:00pm, lasting approximately 1½ hrs.
- Involvement in sports or multiple extracurriculars may conflict with YGP commitment – contact Ely to discuss.
- Besides committee meetings, YGP meets as a group on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7PM.
- Strong interest in community engagement.
- Passionate about current issues facing Dane County.
- Eager to bring your voice and ideas to the table.
- High level of maturity.
- Good communication & self-expression skills (or willing to develop).
- Responsible, dependable, & self-motivated.
- Positive attitude.
- Interest in developing skills in leadership, professionalism, and working with adults.
- Transportation to/from committee meetings in Madison (bus passes available).
This program requires active participation from dedicated and responsible youth who are committed to the program. As a distinguished opportunity with a high level of interest, it’s important to approach this commitment with seriousness and dedication.
YGP strives to recruit a cohort that reflects Dane County’s diversity in every form including geography, race, ethnicity, gender identity, ability status, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, religion, and all other identities. All Dane County youth are encouraged to apply.
Pre-Application Recommendations: Get a sneak peek.
- Attend a committee meeting to see what it’s all about. Check Legistar for info.
- Watch a county board meeting online.
- Review different committees functions and descriptions.
- Learn more about YGP! (+ Review Program Description)
Selection Process:
- Initial applicant screening by Extension Dane County Educator.
- Brief interviews conducted by Extension Dane County Educator and County Board Supervisors.
- Approval of up to 12-18 YGP applicant finalists.
- Notification of acceptance in Summer 2024, with program orientation in the fall.
Induction into the Program:
- Official induction in fall with a formal Pinning Ceremony at a meeting of the Dane County Board of Supervisors.
- Start making a difference in your community on your assigned committees after the Pinning Ceremony.
Additional Information:
For a printer-friendly version of this information, download the 2024-2025 YGP Application Details.
Have questions?
Contact Ely, UW Extension Educator and Youth Government Program Manager, at moya.ely@danecounty.gov
Preview the 2024-2025 YGP Application questions.
