Evergreen Boys State

Evergreen Boys State is a nonprofit program affiliated with the American Legion, designed to educate high school students about government operations and civic leadership. The program is specifically for male high school juniors in Washington State, aiming to foster civic engagement, leadership skills, and an in-depth understanding of government functions.

Objectives and Activities

The primary goal of Evergreen Boys State is to cultivate civic leadership and instill pride in young American citizenship. Participants engage in simulations of local, county, and state governments, including running for offices, participating in court proceedings, and creating laws. The program emphasizes public speaking, team building, and community engagement.

History

Boys State programs were initially developed in the 1930s as a response to Fascist influences on young people. The American Legion, through educators Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card, created the initiative to educate youth about democratic values and roles in government. Evergreen Boys State continues this mission by providing immersive experiences where participants govern their own mock communities.

Eligibility and Participation

Eligibility is limited to male students who have completed their junior year of high school with at least one remaining semester. The selection process involves local American Legion posts nominating candidates based on leadership, character, scholarship, and service. Financial assistance is available to ensure accessibility regardless of economic background.

Structure

The program typically accommodates between 115 to 200 students annually. It runs for one week, during which participants reside at the Warm Beach Conference Center. Activities include simulated government operations, recreational events, and community activities, aiming to foster personal growth and civic responsibility.

Evergreen Boys State operates in parallel with Evergreen Girls State, which targets female students. Both programs prioritize education and personal development over social interactions between genders, ensuring a focused environment for learning and leadership development.