How does an idea become a law? Who gets to decide what policies shape our communities, our schools, and our environment? And where do young people fit into all of this?
At last week’s CAF Legislative Advocacy Training, youth gathered to discover that advocacy isn’t something reserved for adults in suits or government buildings. It’s something young people can understand, practice, and lead right now.
The day kicked off with a presentation breaking down how state and national legislation works. Youth unpacked the journey of a bill– from an idea, to a proposal, to debates, votes, and (sometimes!) becoming law. Youth learned how legislation directly shapes environmental protections, climate action, and community well-being… and how policies can either move us forward or hold us back.
Then, the room transformed into a buzzing hub of activity. Youth rotated through a multi-table Advocacy Passport activity, moving from station to station and collecting stamps as they completed mini-challenges related to legislation. At different tables, participants practiced things like calling their legislators, signing “pro” and “con” arguments, and thinking critically about how different stakeholders might be affected by policy decisions.
This hands-on approach made abstract concepts tangible- and more important, accessible and fun. Instead of just learning about advocacy, youth were actively practicing it.
Then came the participants’ big project of the day: creating their owns bills. After being faced with a real-world community problem, youth broke into small groups and identified solutions with everything they had learned, and worked together to turn their ideas into actual legislative proposals.
After so much focused work, youth were led into a well-earned break time, stepping outside for fresh air and a short walk to reset and recharge. This is an important part of ALL CAF programming, as reminding youth of the world outside they fight for is crucial to what CAF stands for.
Then came the grand finale: our Chutes-and-Ladders–style legislation race. Each group’s bill “raced” through the legislative process, climbing ladders of support and success– and sliding down chutes representing very real obstacles like opposition, misinformation, delays, or funding challenges. The game brought laughter, suspense, and lots of cheering, while reinforcing an important lesson: passing legislation is rarely straightforward, but persistence and strategy matter.
Throughout the day, participants stayed energized with a delicious lunch spread of fruits, veggies, snacks, donuts, and pizza. We are deeply grateful to MOD Pizza and Top Pot Donuts for generously sponsoring food and helping make the day feel celebratory and nourishing.
By the end of the training, youth walked away with concrete skills and confidence. They learned:
- Advocacy skills they can use now and in the future
- The basics of policy-making and legislative strategy
- How laws and legislation directly affect climate and environmental outcomes
More than anything, they left knowing that their ideas are worth taking seriously, and that they belong in spaces where decisions are made.
Thank you to every young person who showed up ready to learn, question, collaborate, and imagine a better future. And thank you to the families, facilitators, and community partners who continue to support youth-led climate action. We can’t wait to see where these advocates take their voices next.
See you next training!
