California YMCA Youth & Government has offered the Model  United Nations (MUN) program to middle school students throughout the  state since 2001. Middle school students (delegates) participate in the  program with their peers. They are given the opportunity to discuss  international issues, discover other cultures, develop life-enhancing  skills, and make new friends. The program culminates when delegates from  around the state meet at the annual Model United Nations Summit in Los  Angeles, California. While there, they will not only learn more about  the program area in which they are participating (Economic and Social  Council, Non-Governmental Organizations, International Court of Justice,  etc.), but they will receive training in areas such as public speaking,  decision-making, cultural competency, and evidence-based persuasion.

Once  at the Summit, delegates take on the roles of their country’s UN  representatives, committee chairs, and presiding officers. They get to  put their research and newfound knowledge to work as they perform their  roles and explore how the United Nations is run. In this unique  experience, middle schoolers deal with international issues that affect  our world.

Meetings are on Wednesdays from January 15 to May 6 at  lunchtime.  Students may participate in the first two sessions to get a  feel for the program before making a financial commitment by Jan  30th.  Please see the attached flyer from leader, Nana Sosa for more  detailed information.