Youth Civic Engagement Program (YCEP)

SOCR's Youth Civic Engagement Program (YCEP) equips Seattle high school students with skills to drive powerful change in their communities through policy and advocacy experiences. In this program, you will learn about local government and the legislative process, receive mentorship, and write an advocacy letter about an issue you care about. You will also meet elected representatives, gain leadership and critical advocacy skills alongside your peers, boost your resume, and have fun!

Program Goals

• Learning: Expanding knowledge of local policy opportunities and challenges  
• Community: Forging connections between young leaders in Seattle
• Imagination: Civic problem-solving led by Seattle youth
• Leadership: Strengthening advocacy and civic engagement skills

Eligibility

Seattle students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply.  This program is limited to a total of 20 students in 2025, and selection will be determined by factors including: 

• Clear commitment to learning from others
• Strong interest in serving as a community advocate
• Little to no previous experience in civic engagement
• Demonstrated need for mentorship
• Constituent of one of Seattle’s seven City Council districts 

The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. We encourage people of all backgrounds to participate, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and those with diverse life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or medical condition. 

Time Commitment 

YCEP will meet virtually from 11:00am to 12:30pm on the following dates: 

• February 22
• March 22  
• April 26  
• May 17  

The final session will be held in-person at Seattle City Hall in June or July, and will include opportunities to meet your peers and City of Seattle leaders.  

Application Process

To apply, complete the required application linked below by February 2, 2025, at 11:59 PM (PST). 

• YCEP Application. This form is required for your participation. For full consideration, please answer all the application questions to the best of your ability.
• YCEP Voluntary Self-Disclosure Survey. This survey is optional and used to better understand our applicant pool and continually improve outreach and recruitment efforts. This is not required for your participation in the program.

For disability accommodations, accessibility information, or materials in additional languages or alternate formats, contact (206) 684-4500, TTY 7-1-1 at your earliest opportunity.

Submitting an application does not guarantee admission. Selected participants for the program will receive a letter of acceptance no later than February 17, 2025.