ALA Girls State is a competitive, week-long civic education program sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary for high school juniors who demonstrate outstanding leadership and an interest in government. Selected participants, known as "citizens," build a functioning mock government from the ground up, running for office, passing legislation, and experiencing the democratic process firsthand. The program is offered at no cost to participants, with sponsoring American Legion Auxiliary units covering expenses. ALA Girls State is one of the most respected leadership and civic programs available to young women in the country, and top participants may be selected to attend ALA Girls Nation in Washington, D.C.
Delivering ideas clearly and confidently in front of an audience.
Guiding a group toward a shared goal and keeping everyone moving together.
Evaluating information carefully before drawing a conclusion or making a decision.
Setting long-term goals and mapping out the steps to reach them.
Speaking up and taking action on behalf of a cause or group of people.
Bringing people together around a shared cause to create real change.
Students run a mock government, learning how political processes and policy decisions are made at state level.
Program teaches responsible citizenship and governmental structure through simulated elections and civic participation.
Students engage in nonpartisan civic leadership, learning to balance competing interests in a mock governmental setting.
Participants elect and run mock government at all state levels, gaining hands-on experience in governmental operations.
Community Experiences
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