Dates: June 22nd – July 16th, 2026
Mondays – Thursdays, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Register Now

Empowering Youth to Rethink, Reframe & Reshape Society

Join us this summer for an unforgettable journey of learning, collaboration, and impact!

The Youth Civic Challenge empowers teams of 13–18 year-olds to define and tackle real-world issues. Through this program, participants learn to rethink societal structures, reframe challenges, and implement lasting solutions, thereby strengthening democratic engagement.

"Youth Civic Challenge empowers aspiring young people to lead transformative initiatives in their local communities and beyond. This positive, engaging, and immersive civics program has the potential to strengthen our democracy."

Ralph Nader

Who Should Apply? Students age 13-18

Are you passionate about civics and eager to make a tangible impact? Youth Civic Challenge invites you to be part of an exclusive, 4-week summer course designed to empower driven individuals with the tools, knowledge, and network to drive positive change. Dive deep into the complexities and civic impact of environmental issues, develop innovative solutions, and connect with like-minded peers.

DISCOVER YOUR VOICE

The program consists of several interconnected components:

  • Dynamic Thinking Tools: An introduction to 12 “Lenses” providing a comprehensive view of our interconnected world.
  • Civic Context: Engaging debates on the Constitution, supplemented by historical and Native American perspectives.
  • Modeling Exercises: Utilizing group insights to prototype societal issues and envision transformative solutions.
  • Historical Models: Examples from history showcasing effective changes.
  • Cross-Generational Connections: Engagements with individuals who have enacted significant changes.
  • Collaborative Network: Integration into a national network of Youth Civic Challenge teams to amplify impact.
  • Skill Development: In-depth training in data collection, analysis, articulation, implementation, and presentation.

SHAPE YOUR WORLD

Program Outcomes:

  • Increased Civic Participation: Enhanced engagement in public forums and community discussions.
  • Enhanced Public Discourse: Improved dialogue quality on key policy issues.
  • Empowered Citizenry: Deeper understanding of political processes and critical thinking, debate, and advocacy skills.
  • Policy Impact: Development of citizen-driven policy proposals.
  • Community Building: Strengthened community networks and grassroots collaborative projects.

Program Cost & Details

4-Week Program Includes Lunch

  • Cost: $200.00
  • Register before March 1st: $150.00
  • Register before April 30th: $175.00
  • Sibling Discount: 20%
  • Scholarships Available

Certificate Upon Completion

Location

American Museum of Tort Law, 654 Main St. Winsted, CT 06098

860-379-0505 or [email protected]