PALISADES-MALIBU YMCA YOUTH & GOVERNMENT PARENT HANDBOOK CALIFORNIA YMCA YOUTH & GOVERNMENT MOTTO. Democracy Must Be Learned By Each Generation

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1 PALISADES-MALIBU YMCA YOUTH & GOVERNMENT PARENT HANDBOOK CALIFORNIA YMCA YOUTH & GOVERNMENT MOTTO Democracy Must Be Learned By Each Generation MISSION We build values-based leadership and civic engagement in California s youth to strengthen our democracy. Adopted by the Board of Directors: March 2010

2 General Information Contact Info Should you have any questions or comments regarding the Youth & Government program, do not hesitate to contact Ashley Russell, Youth & Family Programs Director/Y&G Lead Advisor by or phone: (310) ext Meetings The Palisades-Malibu Youth and Government Program consist of Thursday night delegation meetings lasting 1-2 hours starting at 6:00pm at Palisades High School, and are run by youth elected delegation officers. Attendance is mandatory for participating delegates because the content directly relates to the Model Legislature and Court experience. Agenda items include: Nominations and elections of delegation and statewide officers Speeches from statewide candidates and guests Parliamentary procedure workshops and role training Court case workshops and training Group building Bill development Three Conferences All three conferences are mandatory for Palisades-Malibu YMCA delegates. Please note there are additional conferences that attendance is recommended but not required, that include an additional fee. November 10 12, 2012 Training & Elections Conference #1 (Bob1) This Saturday Monday conference over Veteran s Day weekend takes place at Camp Roberts National Guard Base, just North of Paso Robles. The conference combines the election of some statewide officers and a general introduction and training of the roles that the delegates will be assuming in the Model Legislature and Court. Delegates depart from the Westside YMCA Youth House at approximately 3:00am on Saturday morning and return around 6:00pm on Monday night. They will need to bring warm clothes, Pali Mali attire, sleeping bag, pillow, toiletries, etc. January , 2013 Training & Elections Conference #2 (Bob 2, or ReBob) This Saturday Monday conference over the Martin Luther King weekend also takes place at Camp Roberts. This conference focuses on detailed delegate training in their specific roles and the remaining officers are elected. Delegates depart from the Westside YMCA Youth House at approximately 3:00am on Saturday morning and return around 6:00pm on Monday night. They will need to bring warm clothes, Pali Mali attire, sleeping bag, pillow, toiletries, etc. February 14 18, th Model Legislature & Court Sacramento Conference This four day conference is the culmination of the Youth & Government program. The delegates take over the actual state government chambers and offices to put on a Model Legislature and Court. The program is housed at the Sacramento Hyatt Regency and Sheraton hotels across from the Capitol Building.

3 There are several Joint Sessions where the whole Youth and Government program is addressed by important speakers like the Governor and State Superintendent of Public Instruction. On Thursday night, the real Legislature moves out and the high school delegates move into the Capitol. For the next 3 ½ days the government is run in a Model fashion. Between 8:00am and 10:00pm delegates are required to be in dress code. The dress code includes a coat, tie and slacks for males, and skirts, dresses, or pant suits for females. Delegates need to bring dress clothes for 4 days, money to cover meals, and casual clothes for nighttime activities.

4 Delegation Criteria In a time of what appears to be decaying moral values and political turmoil, it becomes the responsibility of today s youth to rise up and represent change for the better as models for the future of our world. Within the Youth and Government program, participants have the unique opportunity to put into practice the values and actions necessary to achieve a better tomorrow. As a member of the Palisades-Malibu YMCA, each of us will strive to uphold the character values of respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and as defined by the Y s four core values. We will always do what is morally correct, not what is politically popular. We must support, encourage, and educate others of the need for positive change, goodness towards others and shall exemplify this in our actions at all related events as representatives of our delegation and program. Members of the Palisades-Malibu YMCA Youth and Government Delegation are committed to a delegation Code of Conduct and Delegation Criteria which outlines the basic principle that we will display responsible behavior. Our Code of Conduct models how delegates of such a prestigious program shall conduct themselves at all times. While signifying our commitment to integrity and self-control, we will also demonstrate leadership qualities during program activities. Delegation Criteria Guidelines: Attendance All weekly Delegation Meetings are mandatory unexcused absences shall have a bearing on role selection priority and overall eligibility for participation All conferences are mandatory for participation, which includes T&E I, T&E II, and Sacramento As stated in the Statewide Code of Conduct: All conference sessions are mandatory for all attendees. Any unexcused absence from a conference session can result in dismissal from the program Conduct As stated in the Palisades-Malibu YMCA Delegation Code of Conduct: Delegates will display responsible behavior at all YMCA related events Uphold the four core values: Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, and Caring Spirit PMA Positive Mental Attitude towards the program, delegation, and all participants It is not how loud you cheer, rather it is your embodiment of those characteristics Understand that as a member of this delegation we represent the Palisades-Malibu YMCA at every Youth & Government activity. Behavior has a lasting effect on other s impression of our YMCA. Participation Each Pali Mali delegate must actively participate in meeting ice breakers, debates and group discussions. It is also greatly encouraged that each child speaks in session during conferences.

5 Delegation Code of Conduct The Youth & Government program is run through the Palisades-Malibu YMCA and participates through California YMCA Youth & Government. It is designed to provide an opportunity for education and personal growth for the youth of our community. This program was developed to encourage high school students to become well informed and active in the current state of American government. It is important to Palisades-Malibu YMCA to instill high morals in its participants. This code of conduct document serves as a tool for the delegates of the program to model their behavior in a way complementary to their morals. The Pali Mali YMCA Youth and Government Delegation do hereby agree: 1. To adhere to the policies of the YMCA, specifically abstaining from possession or consumption of alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco products, and refraining from sexual or intimate activity (including kissing) and criminal activity at all functions and events related to the YMCA. 2. To respect the Body, Mind, and Spirit of ourselves and all those affiliated with the program. 3. To challenge ourselves to strive for our personal best and take pride in our accomplishments. 4. To uphold the spirit of healthy competition; to do what is morally correct without allowing ourselves to be influenced by political pressure. 5. To demonstrate respect when dealing with both the resources available to our delegation and the possessions of others. 6. To maintain a superior level of consistency, dedication and loyalty to our delegation and others at all YMCA events. 7. To additionally adhere to all regulations stipulated in the California YMCA Youth & Government code of conduct. 8. To submit my personal belongs to a K-9 contraband search prior to departure for all Youth and Government events. Failure to respect and adhere to the limit as well as the spirit of this code of conduct will result in immediate dismissal from the program for one full year.

6 California YMCA Youth & Government CODE OF CONDUCT For Model Legislature/Court The purpose of California YMCA Youth & Government is to develop within our youth a dedication to the values of democracy and an awareness of the need for their participation and leadership in the democratic process. BASIC PHILOSOPHY OF RESPONSIBLE CONDUCT Essential to the California YMCA Youth & Government (Y&G) is the concern of each participant for the rights of every individual. Being responsible for one's own behavior at all times is a necessary part of self-government. It is critical that all delegates, advisors, and staff act responsibly to ensure that their own conduct and attitude is beneficial not only to themselves and their fellow delegates, but also to ensure the continuation of Y&G s programs. The Code of Conduct shall be observed by both youth and adults. There will be no double standard. By choosing to participate in the programs of Y&G, each individual agrees that they have read, understand, and will follow the Code of Conduct while attending any part of the program. Each participant is accountable for preserving the reputation and high standard of his/her YMCA delegation and Y&G. All participants share equally the responsibility for their actions when violations of the Code are witnessed. Those who decide to be present when a violation occurs shall, by their own choice, be considered a participant in the violation. In this program, there are no "innocent bystanders". I. GENERAL RULES Infractions of General Rules A-G shall result in expulsion from Y&G functions and conferences. In order to ensure the safety of all participants Y&G reserves the right to conduct searches of baggage, rooms and persons to include the use of breathalyzers in accordance with its polices. In addition, local law enforcement agencies may be contacted and the delegate/advisor/staff member turned over to them as appropriate: a. All public and private facilities placed at the disposal of Y&G to conduct its programs are to be given the greatest care and attention by everyone. It is a PRIVILEGE to use them; treat them with respect. Any act of vandalism, destruction of property, or misuse of a facility may be a crime and will be treated as such. b. Possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs are strictly prohibited. c. Weapons of any kind and items that could cause injury or damage to participants and/or property are strictly forbidden. d. Any violation of State or Federal laws will be treated as such and the proper authorities may be notified. e. Activities which endanger the health and safety of the individual or others are prohibited. f. Inappropriate or uninvited physical contact between any Y&G participants, staff member, or guests is not allowed. Intimate sexual behavior is inappropriate and not allowed. g. Possession and/or the use of any tobacco products is not permitted.

7 Infractions of General Rules H-O may result in expulsion from Y&G functions and conferences: h. Laws of the state, county, and city governments are to be observed. i. Badges shall only be worn by the individual whose name is on that badge. BADGE SWITCHING OR SHARING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. Participants will wear their assigned badges at all times when they are not in their sleeping rooms, and badges are to be worn above the waist and must be visible. Badges are not to be defaced, decorated, or altered in any way. Only advisors may request replacement badges. There may be a charge for replacement badges. j. Specific rules as set by the individual facilities (i.e., YMCA, State Capitol, Hotels, California National Guard facilities, etc.) are to be observed. k. Participants must be present and punctual at all meetings where their involvement is required. l. Participants shall observe all curfews and be in their assigned sleeping rooms at the established curfew times. m. No delegate shall be in the barrack of the opposite sex at the Training & Elections Conferences. In Sacramento, no delegate shall be present in the hotel room with a member of the opposite sex at any time, unless an advisor is present in the room, or there are five or more delegates present in the room, two of which are the same sex (3-2 rule). n. Y&G does not permit delegates to drive vehicles to or from any of its related conferences. Any delegation seeking an exception must clear it in advance with their local YMCA Executive Director or, in school based delegations, School Principal, and must provide proof in writing to the Y&G office prior to the related conference. DELEGATES MAY NOT DRIVE ANY VEHICLE WHILE AT A CONFERENCE. Advisors seeking to drive during a conference shall obtain clearance through Y&G. IN ALL CASES, LIABILITY IS ASSUMED BY THE SPONSORING LOCAL YMCA OR SCHOOL. o. All electronic devices (except those used by the Y&G staff) must be turned off during all sessions, meetings, and hearings in all program areas. Advisors/staff may leave devices on, but inaudible, for emergency contact reasons. They must leave the session/area in order to answer a call. p. Falsification of records threatens the integrity of the program and will be considered a serious breach of contract. The result will include a range of penalties up to dismissal from the program. II. DRESS RULES FOR OFFICIALLY SCHEDULED SESSIONS a. Sacramento Model Legislature & Model Court- All participants are to maintain a professional and business-like appearance by dressing in business and professional attire during the Model Legislature/Court business day (8 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.) and other such hours as designated by the program schedule. The CEO and his/her designee has the authority to determine both the appropriateness of appearance and attire of participants. b. Other Conferences & Meetings Participants must wear clean, tidy school attire. No open toed shoes are allowed outside of an individual s own barrack at Camp Roberts.

8 c. Refer to Dress Code Supplement for specific requirements for both the Model Legislature/Court and other conferences and meetings. III. DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS a. The Code of Conduct is binding on all delegates, advisors, and staff. Each participant will be accountable for his/her actions. In addition, each YMCA or school and its advisors shall be held accountable for the conduct of their delegation. b. THE CEO HAS THE AUTHORITY TO INTERPRET THE CODE OF CONDUCT AND ADMINISTER ANY DISCIPLINARY ACTION DEEMED NECESSARY. c. The CEO has the authority to delegate his/her disciplinary powers to any staff person deemed appropriate. d. ALL EXPENSES AND ARRANGEMENTS RELATED TO ANY DISCIPLINARY ACTION ARE THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE LOCAL YMCA OR SCHOOL, THE DELEGATION, AND THE ADVISOR, WHO SHALL BE REIMBURSED BY THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN. YMCAs MUST BE PREPARED TO ASSUME ANY AND ALL FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS IMMEDIATELY. IV. LOCAL YMCA RULES a. Each local YMCA or school may outline more stringent rules of conduct in conformance with this Code of Conduct for its delegation. These additional rules and the Y&G Code of Conduct are binding. Violation of either could subject the offender to termination from the program. Delegation advisors shall be responsible for enforcing such additional rules of their local YMCA. Amended May 2, 2009

9 General Appearance at Sacramento Hair: Body Piercings: Tattoos: Must be a viable natural color. No extreme hairstyles (Mohawks, large spikes, etc.) No visible body piercings, except for earrings. No visible tattoos MALES Do's: Dont s: Sport coat (like a suit jacket), button-down collared shirt, tie, and nice pants (required) Suits Nice "Dockers" type slacks, not khakis Pants must be hemmed and fitted at the waist Dark colored socks and dress shoes Dress sweater, sweater vest, or suit-type vest (must be plain and worn over collared shirt and tie) No jeans No bolo or western ties No athletic shoes No corduroy pants No ski type patterned sweaters No cargo pants No fleece vests or sweatshirts No hats of any kind FEMALES Do's: Don'ts: Suits (skirt or pants with matching jacket) Dresses (conservative business type) Hose or tights with all skirts and dresses Sweater "twin-sets" (not cut too low) Button-down, blouses Looser dress pants Comfortable Dress Shoes (you can't take them off if your feet hurt.) Skirts - Just above the knee or longer - should not be more than 2 inches above the knee. Make sure you can walk and sit down comfortably in any clothes you wear. No clingy stretch pants No "hip-hugger" pants No visible bra straps/sheer tops No cargo pants No sandals (strappy type shoes okay at Governor s Banquet) No bare-midriff tops

10 Payment, Refund, and Financial Assistance Policy Payments and Fee Structure All payments must be paid in full on the date that they are due. Payments must be made by cash, check or credit card. Failure to make payments in full and on time can result in the delegate being dropped from the Youth and Government program. Payment plans are available, but must be arranged before the first payment deadline of October 5, The fee structure and due dates are as follows: $ Due by Oct. 5 $ Due by Nov. 9 $ Due by Dec. 7 $ Due by Jan. 4 Total Program Cost $1,650 Refunds Due to the nature of the Youth and Government program, refunds will not be given after the scheduled payment dates listed above. Financial Assistance Financial assistance will be given on an as needed basis. Anyone receiving financial assistance will be expected to attend the majority of delegation fundraisers and will be expected to participate as a campaigner in the Youth division of our YMCA Annual Support Campaign in the fall. The Financial Aid application must be completed along with submitting your 1040 tax form and two consecutive pay check stubs to be considered for financial aid. All applications must be turned in by October 5, If you are applying for financial aid, your first payment due with your application will be $100.

11 Parental Involvement & YMCA Opportunities Parental Involvement Opportunities There are several opportunities to be involved with the Pali Mali Delegation. Parent meetings are scheduled throughout the year, usually before conferences. In addition, parents are invited to our delegation s Bill Hearing Night. Invitations for Parent Meetings and Bill Hearing Night will be sent to you prior to the event. In addition, parents are strongly encouraged to get involved in our Annual Support Campaign. The Youth & Government program would not be able to continue without funds raised during the Annual Support Campaign. The campaign runs from the end of October through December. If you are interested in being a campaigner, please contact Ashley or AshleyRussell@ymcala.org. Also, feel free to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Specific information coming soon!

12 Pali Mali Youth & Government Important Dates Regular meetings are held on Thursday s from 6:00-7:30pm at Palisades Charter High School September 20 Meeting #1 September 27 Meeting #2 October 4 Meeting #3 and MANDATORY PARENTS MEETING October 5 First Payment DUE October 11 Meeting #4 October 18 Meeting #5 October 25 -NO MEETING- November 1 Meeting #6 November 8 Meeting #7 November 9 Second Payment DUE November Training and Elections 1 (Camp Roberts) November 15 Meeting #8 November 22 -NO MEETING- November 29 Meeting #9 December 6 BILL HEARING NIGHT (Location TBD) December 7 Third Payment DUE December 13 Meeting #10-HOLIDAY PARTY December 20 -NO MEETING- December 27 -NO MEETING- January 3 -NO MEETING- January 4 FINAL PAYMENT DUE January 10 Meeting #11 January 17 Meeting #12 January Training and Elections 2 (Camp Roberts) January 24 Meeting #13 January 31 Meeting #14 February 7 Meeting #15 February th Model Legislature and Court (Sacramento) February 21 Meeting #16 February 28 Recognition Banquet For more information please contact Ashley or AshleyRussell@ymcala.org.