NSYMCA Youth & Government Program Celebrates Achievements at the General Assembly

Northbrook, IL – September 2025 – The North Suburban YMCA’s Youth and Government (YAG) Program concluded an extraordinary second year, earning statewide recognition for their leadership, teamwork, and legislative success at the Illinois Youth and Government Assembly in Springfield, IL.

YMCA Youth & Government is a leadership development program for high school students that immerses participants in the legislative process by allowing them to serve as legislators, attorneys, executive officials, lobbyists, press members, and more.

This past year, the NSYMCA delegation achieved a remarkable accomplishment: all six of their bills were passed at the Youth and Government General Assembly in March and signed into law by the Youth Governor. The achievement required strategic collaboration, persistence, and mastery of parliamentary procedure.

“Our students showed true leadership and persistence,” said Nerissa Coyle McGinn, parent and Youth & Government Advisor. “Getting all six bills signed is an extraordinary feat that reflects their dedication to civic engagement and to each other.”

Highlights from the Assembly included:

• First Bill Signed: NSYMCA Delegates Claire Dolan, Kirsten Kelly, and Ty Coyle had the honor of authoring the first bill signed into law. They were invited to a bill signing ceremony in the Governor’s Office, followed by a press conference shared on Instagram. View here.
• Best Bill of Assembly: Delegates Drew Horvath and Alex Chalem were awarded “Best Bill of Assembly” and participated in a special signing ceremony with the Youth Governor.
• Rising Leadership: In the inaugural year of the Legislative Assistant program, Charlie Woodruff advanced to the second round of the highly competitive process.
• Lobbyist Leadership: Delegates Simon Ferencz and Fabian Beiko distinguished themselves as statewide lobbyist leaders while supporting their peers’ legislation.
• Judicial Review: A bill authored by Ruby Werber and Frida Beiko—addressing the criminalization of harassing deep fakes—was one of only a few selected for review by the Youth Supreme Court. Their work also earned the delegation an opportunity to meet Illinois Supreme Court Justice David K. Overstreet.
• Devotion Leaders: Ty Coyle and Frida Beiko opened the Assembly in front of 900 students as statewide Devotion Leaders.
• Best Legislator: Ruby Werber was recognized as “Best Legislator in the House,” capping off an exceptional showing for the NSYMCA delegation.

Starting the 3rd year of the program, the North Suburban YMCA’s YAG program continues to empower teens with hands-on experience in government, debate, and leadership. Through bill drafting, legislative sessions, and leadership opportunities, students gain a deep understanding of civic responsibility and the democratic process.

“Youth and Government gives teens the opportunity to find their voice, learn how government really works, and make lasting friendships,” said Kathy Fielding, CEO of the North Suburban YMCA. “We are so proud of how our delegation has grown and thrived in just two years, and we can’t wait to see what our next generation of students achieve in the years ahead.”

The NSYMCA delegation’s success stands as a testament to the program’s mission of developing informed, engaged, and future-ready leaders.

For more information about the NSYMCA Youth and Government program, please email Kim Nyren at knyren@nsymca.org or visit nsymca.org View Here

About the North Suburban YMCA

The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 15 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.