democracy camp

Our youth-led Democracy Camp welcomes young people with varying levels of civic knowledge and experience who are committed to strengthening democracy in the US. This week-long summer program is high energy and fast paced, equipping participants with the information and tools needed to step into their roles as champions of democracy.

We equip young people ✊ to channel their passions into positive action 🗳️ — at and beyond the ballot box.We equip young people ✊ to channel their passions into positive action 🗳️ — at and beyond the ballot box.We equip young people ✊ to channel their passions into positive action 🗳️ — at and beyond the ballot box.

a more resilient democracy

Engaging young people in the democratic process isn't just about preparing future leaders. At YVote, we believe that young people are the leaders of the present and aim to empower them to actively shape their communities today. As such, youth-led democracy building is crucial for revitalizing democratic principles and ensuring they remain relevant in a rapidly evolving world.

Democracy Camp not only supports young leaders in honing their leadership skills but also connects them with the networks and resources needed to amplify their impact. Together, we envision a future where young people are active architects who drive meaningful progress and inspire others to join them in building a more inclusive and responsive society.

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program highlight

Our 2024 Democracy Camp brought together 54 NYC teens at the NY Society for Ethical Culture for a week of civics-based curriculum. Youth facilitators led sessions around the history and development of democracy in the US, political power structures, the intersection of media and politics, and how identity and lived experiences shape civic participation. Campers identified the root causes of social inequalities in the US, explored the current threats our democracy is facing, and brainstormed collaborative solutions towards a more inclusive democracy.

While Democracy Camp lasts one week, Campers have the opportunity to complete a Democracy Project throughout the school year. These projects allow Campers to take what they learned during Democracy Camp and apply it to a specific concern about democracy within their communities using hands-on experience. Last year’s projects focused on mental health in immigrant families, healthcare inequities for Black women, educational inequities in the Bronx, and more.

run a democracy camp!

Interested in bringing Democracy Camp to your community? We’re looking for youth-led or civic-focused organizations to partner with us in expanding Democracy Camp. Contact us to learn more

apply now