Students The program targets to graduate up to 40 students per year, with flexibility to accept up to 50 to account for potential attrition. A strong emphasis is placed on cross-county outreach to ensure diverse geographic representation. Recruitment should be inclusive, with specific attention to Title 1 schools and underrepresented student populations. Partnerships with schools, local organizations, and community leaders across the region are essential. The application process is intentionally simple, prioritizing student interest and potential for growth over prior experience. Peer Coordinators (PCs) Graduates of the YLA program may apply to return in a leadership capacity as Peer Coordinators. PCs support workshop and speaker planning, assist in student outreach and application review, moderate sessions, and serve as peer liaisons. The organization will oversee PC participation and provide stipends. Program Model: Program Structure and Objectives A youth-centered organization will serve as the lead implementer (program administrator), with SACOG providing support on content, facilitation of SACOG-related topics, and coordination of government speaker participation. Program Goals Foster civic leadership skills among youth; Expose students to public-sector decision-making; Cultivate future leaders with a grounding in equity, planning, and local governance; and Provide opportunities for applied leadership in community and policy contexts. Curriculum SACOG provides an established program curriculum, which may be enhanced or modified with SACOG approval. Approved curriculum modifications must meet core program objectives and highlight key areas of interest for SACOG. YLA Themes & Discussion Topics: Transportation and land use planning Racial justice and equity Economic development Housing and homelessness Public health and the environment Climate change and environmental justice Leadership development Regional and local governance Civic participation and public process In person workshops / field Trips The program includes at least four (4) in person workshops that can include educational field trips, occurring at least once per month. Trips should align with YLA themes and SACOG principles and introduce students to organizations working in areas such civic education, environment and climate, agriculture and working lands, land use, transportation, municipal government, equity and environmental justice.
