What is IYC? | |
Iowa Youth Congress (IYC) seeks up to 100 Iowa high school-aged youth to participate in a year-long program which provides students the knowledge, abilities, and direction to advocate and enact change in their communities and at the state level for issues affecting youth. IYC will hold regional meetings throughout the year and will engage students in a one-day Mock Congress event. Through the IYC experience, students attain a variety of skills including public speaking, problem solving, and political debate in multicultural leadership settings. The students also report that IYC participation improves their interest in the legislative process and helps to provide a more hands-on learning experience in the proposal, debate, and passing of bills.
The application period ended June 3rd, 2022. Please check back in May, 2023, for the 2023-24 application period. | |
Legislative Initiatives: | IYC Members |
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IYC and Service | Event Photos |
| District Orientations
Members of IYC meet in-person in their regional districts to learn about the IYC Program and meet each other for the first time. During that time, they do a feedback wall to decide what issue topics they will be working on for the year.
Click here to see past year photos.
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Mock CongressIYC Members at Mock Congress, hosted in the fall, debate and vote on their legislative agenda for the year. The event is held at the Iowa State Capitol in the House Chamber.
"My favorite part of IYC so far would have to be Mock Congress and coordinating with my district throughout that day." - 2021-2022 IYC Member | |
Legislative Prep DayOn January 17, members of the Iowa Youth Congress shared information on their legislative priorities with legislators. | |
QuestionsFor questions regarding applying or IYC in general, please contact the DHR Youth Development Coordinator at kayla.powell@iowa.gov |