Who Is Youth Caucus For?

By Jeremie Bateman

GA 2012 Logo
The General Assembly Youth Caucus is a place for UU youth to gather, learn, worship and build community, while also experiencing the rest of what General Assembly has to offer. Youth Caucus this year will include trainings, networking opportunities, small group reflection, worship and more. If you’re a youth interested in justice work, building connections with other youth from across the country, and having a great time, Youth Caucus is for you. Youth Caucus programming is designed for those who are of high-school age (grades 9-12 in 2011-2012 or the equivalent for home-schooled youth). Even this four-year span can cover a range of experiences, developmental stages and abilities. Most programming is targeted toward the middle of the range. Younger youth may find that the programming asks them to stretch, while older youth may find that the programming is a review, or a reinforcement of other experiences. Please note that because of the need to make sure we have our legal bases covered around supervision, parent permission, etc, all those who are age 14-17 must register as youth. Can you be more specific about high-school aged? I’m 18.

18 is a transitional year for many people, and the answer about whether 18 year olds are part of Youth Caucus is “it depends.” Youth Caucus is structured based on life-stage, not strictly chronological age.

If you were in secondary school (high-school) or being home-schooled during the year preceding GA (2011-2012 school year), then you are considered a youth. This includes those who are over 18 and were still in secondary school.

If were a college student or in the work-force and not in a secondary school (or home-schooled), then you are considered a young adult.

While 18-year-old youth are eligible for youth registration, they are not required to register as youth.

Can you be more specific about high-school aged? I’m 14 but just finished 8th grade.

Again, Youth Caucus is more about life-stage than strict chronological age. Since programming is really targeted for those who are in the middle of the high-school range, those who have just finished 8th grade will not have their needs met.

Children’s programming this year includes a Justice Day Camp for those 10-14, that includes exploration of justice issues, hands-on service projects, time at the YMCA and participation in GA programs. The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries strongly suggests this program for those who are 14 and not yet in high school.

More questions? The office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries is your first call! (Contact us.)