Greater Somerset County YMCA Youth & Government Delegation Makes Waves at State Conference

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Greater Somerset County YMCA Youth & Government Delegation Makes Waves at State Conference

Basking Ridge, New Jersey – May 4, 2026 – After months of research, bill drafting, and leadership development, Greater Somerset County YMCA Youth & Government delegation concluded a successful 2026 season at the New Jersey Youth & Government (YAG) State Conference, held April 24–26 in East Brunswick.

Representing one of twenty-one delegations statewide, the Y brought together students from its Franklin Township, Plainfield, Princeton, and Somerville branches. A total of thirty-nine students participated in the program this year, with twenty-three active delegation members and nineteen students attending the conference (ten high school and nine middle school participants).

Throughout the program, students authored and debated twelve original bills, gaining firsthand experience in civic engagement and the legislative process. At the conference, delegates stepped into the roles of legislators, lobbyists, and journalists, collaborating and debating alongside hundreds of peers from across New Jersey.

Key Achievements:

• Two Junior Legislator bills successfully passed 
• One High School bill advanced through committee with strong bipartisan support 
• One High School delegate was re-elected as a State YAG Officer and selected as 1 of only 26 students statewide to attend the prestigious Conference of National Affairs (CONA) 
• Eight students served in peer-elected Executive Board roles (5 High School, 3 Middle School), including a Middle School Executive Board President 
• The delegation honored two graduating seniors for their mentorship and leadership 

Lindsey Williams, Associate Executive Branch Director at Princeton YMCA, who played an instrumental role in this year’s YAG program, shared, “This has been an incredible journey. Months of planning led to something truly special. I am deeply inspired by our delegation, each participant demonstrated passion, dedication, and a true commitment to the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. I am incredibly proud of their work. They are our future, and we are helping pave the way for their continued success.”

Greater Somerset County YMCA also prioritized accessibility, awarding nine full scholarships to ensure more students could participate in this transformative leadership experience.

“It has been a world of fun watching the growth of these students,” said Dave Leveille, Youth Development Director, at Plainfield YMCA and Lead Advisor. “The bravery and dedication shown by the students this weekend proves that the future of civic leadership in Plainfield and Somerset County is in great hands.”

Greater Somerset County YMCA is already preparing for the 2026–2027 season and welcomes new and returning students to find their voice through Youth & Government.

For more information, visit: https://www.gscymca.org/programs/enrichment-education/civic-engagement/.

Contact:

###

About Greater Somerset County YMCA
Greater Somerset County YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to cultivating an inclusive and dynamic community where everyone can realize their unique potential. Through programs that foster healthy living, belonging, and personal growth, the Y empowers individuals and families to thrive. Learn more about our programs and financial assistance at www.gscymca.org.