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

PHOENIX (AZFamily)—Election day is just over a week away. This year, young voters are expected to make a big impact.

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

“Children are our future. The youth are the next leaders of our country. Our next voters,” said Elise Nilles, deputy director of community engagement.

Every election, children ages 5 to 17 can go to a Valley YMCA and experience what it’s like to vote. They have lifelike voting booths and ballots with the same candidates we will be voting on this year.

“We’re officially starting today, so all our polling stations at our locations are open to young people, and then they can vote during the elections. So our polling stations close just like Election Day,” Nilles said.

While it may not be a real ballot, everything about these polling places is meant to be as realistic as possible. From the stalls to the stickers students receive after they vote.

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

This year there will be 8 million new eligible youth voters. High school students like Ava Strichtz think it is an important initiative.

“Not every country has the opportunities we have. So if we have that right and the power to amplify and really talk about what’s important to you, everyone should do that, including our young people,” Strichtz said.

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

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

The YMCA is also offering free child care to parents from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM on Election Day so you can get out and vote. To find a polling station near you, click/tap here.

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