K 234: 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

 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.