Assembly Resolution No. 234

BY: M. of A. Schiavoni

COMMEMORATING the Alliance of New York State YMCAs
89th YMCA Youth and Government State Conference to
be held in Albany, New York, on March 21-23, 2025

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those young people of this great Empire State who make
strong contributions to their communities and serve as role models for
their peers; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the Alliance of New York State YMCAs 89th YMCA Youth and
Government State Conference, featuring the New York YMCA Youth and
Government High School Assembly, to be held at the Desmond Hotel and the
New York State Capitol in Albany, New York, on March 21-23, 2025; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York is proud to serve as the birthplace
of YMCA Youth and Government, established by Clement A. Duran in 1936;
the program offers both middle school (grades 6-8) and high school
(grades 9-12) model state government assemblies to students and schools
across New York State; and

WHEREAS, This three-day assembly allows students to represent their
schools and communities in a variety of roles across the different
branches and components of state government; while preparing for and
attending the assembly, students learn about a wide variety of policy
issues, develop critical thinking skills, and articulate their beliefs
while engaging constructively with their peers from New York State; and

WHEREAS, Student involvement in academic and extracurricular clubs
and organizations fosters personal growth, leadership skills, and a
sense of community while also encouraging teamwork, friendship building,
and the development of communication abilities; and

WHEREAS, Engaging in such activities often boosts academic
performance and prepares students for future challenges by promoting
responsibility, creativity, and problem solving, making it an essential
part of their overall educational experience; and

WHEREAS, Student government encourages leadership, responsibility,
and participation in decision making; it provides a platform for
students to voice concerns, advocate for changes, and engage with peers
to invoke lasting, positive changes, all while promoting a sense of
unity; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Alliance of New York State YMCAs 89th YMCA Youth and
Government State Conference and honor the New York YMCA Youth and
Government High School Assembly for their participation and commitment
to the revered principles of leadership, advocacy, and responsibility;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Drew Caldwell, the Director of Youth Development for the
Alliance of New York State YMCAs and Program Director for the New York
State YMCA Youth and Government.