NSYMCA Youth & Government Program Celebrates Achievements at the 2026 General Assembly

Northbrook, IL – September 2026 – The North Suburban YMCA’s Youth & Government (YAG) Program celebrated its third year with an impressive showing at the Illinois Youth & Government General Assembly, held March 19–21, 2026, in Springfield. NSYMCA delegates earned statewide recognition for their legislative accomplishments, leadership and teamwork, building on the success of the program’s first two years.

YMCA Youth & Government is a leadership development program for high school students that immerses participants in the legislative process. Students take on roles as legislators, attorneys, executive officials, lobbyists, members of the press and more, gaining firsthand experience in government and civic engagement.

During its third year, the NSYMCA delegation continued to build momentum with an impressive showing at the General Assembly. All four bills authored by NSYMCA delegates were selected to be highlighted during caucus discussions, an honor awarded to a limited number of bills each year and determined by the program’s adult leadership. All four bills also received full support from their respective caucuses and successfully advanced out of committee.

One of the delegation’s bills, which would require registered sex offenders to use their legal names on social media accounts, received special recognition and was featured in the General Assembly’s daily newspaper. The legislation went on to be signed into law by the Youth Governor, marking one of the delegation’s most significant accomplishments of the session.

Another NSYMCA-sponsored bill addressing student cell phone policies successfully passed the House of Representatives. While time constraints prevented the legislation from being heard in the Senate, its advancement reflected strong support among delegates.

“Our students demonstrated exceptional preparation, collaboration and perseverance throughout the legislative process,” said Nerissa McGinn, Youth & Government Advisor. “Having all four bills highlighted during caucus and seeing one signed into law reflects the hard work, critical thinking and commitment these students brought to Springfield.”

In addition to their legislative accomplishments, NSYMCA delegates were recognized for their leadership contributions throughout the conference. Jordyn Fliegler, from the NSYMCA Youth and Government team, served as a statewide Devotion Leader, delivering closing remarks at the conference luncheon and speaking before nearly 1,000 participants.

The delegation’s lobbyists also played a critical role in the group’s success, advocating for legislation and building support among fellow delegates. Their enthusiasm and dedication contributed significantly to the advancement of NSYMCA-sponsored bills.

The Youth & Government experience provided students with opportunities to strengthen their public speaking, leadership, collaboration and civic engagement skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the legislative process.

“We are incredibly proud of our students and the way they represented the North Suburban YMCA,” said Kathy Fielding, CEO of the North Suburban YMCA. “Programs like Youth & Government empower young people to become engaged citizens, thoughtful leaders and confident advocates for issues that matter to them. Their accomplishments in Springfield demonstrate the impact of experiential learning and youth leadership development.”

The North Suburban YMCA extends its appreciation to volunteer advisors Nerissa McGinn, Carolina Kelly and Lisa Woodruff for their support and dedication in guiding students throughout the year and during the trip to Springfield.

As the program continues to grow, the NSYMCA Youth & Government delegation remains committed to developing informed, engaged and future-ready leaders through hands-on participation in government and civic affairs.

For more information about the NSYMCA Youth & Government Program, contact Kim Nyren at knyren@nsymca.org or visit NSYMCA.org. If your child is interested in this program, you can also CLICK HERE for more details.

About the NSYMCA’s Youth and Government

For 74 years, Illinois YMCA Youth & Government has been part of one of the leading hands-on, civic engagement programs in the nation. Across the State of Illinois, 40 delegations from high schools or YMCAs from Mundelein to Mt. Vernon – all focused on the premise of “Democracy Must Be Learned By Each Generation.” Now, the NSYMCA is offering the Youth & Government program, in its fourth year – the only Youth & Government program offered in the North Shore of Chicago.

About the North Suburban YMCA

The North Suburban YMCA serves Northbrook and 15 surrounding communities with programs and resources that help residents become healthier, more connected and confident. Guided by its focus on Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility, the NSYMCA ensures that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.