Mayor Bruce Harrell, SOCR Director, Derrick Wheeler-Smith, SOCR Policy staff, and YCEP participants standing on City Hall steps. Youth report increased problem-solving abilities, leadership skills, and motivation to advocate for their communities.
Twenty-one high school students from across Seattle graduated from the Seattle Office for Civil Rights’ (SOCR) Youth Civic Engagement Program (YCEP) with new knowledge and skills to drive meaningful change in their communities. Upon graduation, students’ feedback reflected personal growth and greater confidence in the impact young people can make as active participants in the civic process.
Post-program survey feedback showed:
“It feels really good to share my perspectives and my advocacy letter with Seattle’s City Councilmembers because it shows that I’m able to make a change and that they are willing to listen to my voice and the voice of youth — It made me more hopeful for the future,” said YCEP participant, Lale.
80%
90%
Nearly 80%
of students now see themselves as leaders in their community
of students reported stronger problem-solving skills
reported improved civic knowledge
Building skills and confidence through policy education and advocacy experience
Over the course of four virtual sessions, students learned about the City of Seattle’s legislative process and how to develop policy recommendations. They honed practical skills for impactful writing, speaking with confidence, research, and building trust through community engagement. Students also used story-based strategies to write advocacy letters about policy issues impacting their lives and communities, such as housing insecurity, accessibility, immigration, and student mental health.
The program concluded in July 2025 with in-person advocacy opportunities, including a closing ceremony to celebrate students’ achievements, a tour of Seattle City Hall, and presented their advocacy letters and vision for a more equitable and inclusive Seattle to Mayor Bruce Harrell, City Councilmembers, and Chief Deputy Mayor Washington.
Early civic engagement supports youth and community development
“A truly healthy democracy depends on participation. When young people are involved, our systems become more inclusive, representative, and accountable to the people they serve,” said Derrick Wheeler-Smith, Director, Seattle Office for Civil Rights. “From education and jobs to climate and the legal system, young people are directly impacted by policies they often have no say in. Programs like the Youth Civic Engagement Program are one way we can change that.”
Research shows early civic engagement contributes to positive life outcomes and lasting benefits for communities. According to the Journal of Youth and Adolescence, youth civic engagement can lead to:
- Improved civic knowledge: Youth who participate in civic engagement better understand how local government works and see where their voice fits in, laying the foundation for lifelong participation.
- Stronger leadership skills: Youth are more likely to have defined values and goals, and greater interpersonal and communication skills.
- Positive developmental outcomes: Youth involvement is linked to better physical and mental health, better cognitive skills, as well as more years of education, and higher future earnings.
- Stronger communities: Engaged youth have a stronger sense of community, civic responsibility, and bonds between community members.
The Youth Civic Engagement Program is led by SOCR’s Policy Division and complements ongoing City of Seattle programs, including the Seattle Youth Commission, mental health investments, Seattle Mentors Program, and Seattle Youth Employment Program, that empower youth leaders and support their well-being.
YCEP Applications Open Spring 2026
Applications for the Youth Civic Engagement Program are anticipated to reopen in Spring 2026. Stay informed on the exact launch date by subscribing to our newsletter or following us on social media:
Learn more about YCEP and the Policy Division’s work on our website.
