Valley of the Sun YMCA educates children and teens with mock elections

PHOENIX (AZ Family)—Election Day is just over a week away. This year young voters are expected to have a big impact.

That’s why the YMCA is working to educate our younger generation about the voting process.

“Children are our future. Young people are the next leaders of our country. Our next voters,” said Elise Nilles, associate executive director of civic engagement.

Every election, kids ages 5 to 17 can go to any YMCA in the Valley and experience what it’s like to vote. They have realistic voting booths and ballots with the same candidates we will vote for this year.

“We officially launched it today, so all of our voting sites at our locations are open to young people, and then they can vote throughout the election. So, our polls close like on election day,” Nilles said.

While it may not be a real vote, everything about these polling places should be as realistic as possible. From the booths to the stickers that students receive after voting.

“Students can practice voting, scroll through the options and learn a little more about each candidate. Of senators, judicial retention and corporation commissioners,” Nilles said.

This year, there will be 8 million newly eligible young voters. High school students like Ava Strichartz think it’s an important initiative.

“Not all nations have the opportunities that we have. So having that right and that power to amplify and really talk about what’s important to you, everyone should do it, including our young people,” Strichartz said.

The hope is that this voting experience will help more young people get involved in politics and be more willing to share their voice.

“Go vote. It is a super important process. It is your right and something you should take advantage of because it will always be important,” Strichartz said.

The YMCA also offers free child care to parents on Election Day from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm so they can get out and vote. To find a polling place near you, click/tap here.

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