Local Chapters
Washington Youth Alliance Chapters are free to start and power youth advocacy and decision-making across the state.
Washington Youth Alliance (WYA) Chapters are local, youth-led groups across Washington where young people organize to tackle the issues that directly impact their schools and communities. Whether you care about mental health, gun violence prevention, or other urgent challenges facing our generation, joining or starting a local chapter is an easy, free and powerful way to raise your voice, take action, and make change alongside your peers.
Chapter Activities
Chapters can engage in many activities based on your specific interests in social justice, group strengths, current issues, and/or WYA's engagement with the community. Think: "how can I combine my personal talents, my passions, and what the community/state needs?" to know where to get started.
You noticed your school has a need for awareness on drug use and mental health needs
Lead an educational community conversation
A friend that's great at making social media content + Your knowledge/research on gun violence prevention
Make space for youth to share their stories
Your school/district is about to make significant changes
Mobilize parents and students to get their input in decision-making spaces as early as possible
WYA's Lobby Day is coming up
Invite your peers to get informed and involved during the legislative session
Chapter Benefits
Administrative Support & Resources
WYA provides administrative support through our internal chapter hub center, which includes resources for your group to stay active. Fundraising and financial support are included alongside a generous starting budget and access to grants/donors to grow your impact. Chapters also have a representative on the official WYA Board of Directors.
Leadership Compensation
Additionally, we understand the amount of time and effort it takes to lead this work, which is why chapter leaders (ex. Chapter President) are given a $100 monthly stipend. More compensation opportunities are available throughout the year for leaders and chapter members.
Join an Existing Chapter
Reach out to a chapter in school or community near you!
Seattle Student Union
Seattle Public Schools, your school can become a part of a growing team of youth leaders.
Bellevue High School Chapter
This chapter is in progress, more information coming soon…
Moses Lake High School Chapter
This chapter is in progress, more information coming soon…
Renton High School Chapter
Pullman High School Chapter
Kenmore/Inglemoor High School Chapter
Kirkland/Redmond Chapter
Start a Chapter
Don't see a chapter near you?
Getting Started
Chapters can start with a small team of 3 who will lead alongside the chapter leader. The only eligibility requirement we have for establishing a chapter is that its members are between 14-24 years old. Otherwise, your interest is more than enough to get you started!
No Experience Needed
You don't need to be a pro to get started, especially with grassroots organizing. This type of organizing includes everyday people like you! Maybe you noticed there is no mental health support at your school. Or maybe you heard of a bill that can affect your safety. WYA works with you to provide the skills and resources to make your voice heard on the issues you care about.
Questions? Connect with Kenia Soriano Hernandez about our Chapters Program at kenia@washingtonyouthalliance.org
Want to stay involved?
Sign up for updates
Click on the link to start a chapter. Choose the "Connect with a WYA Chapter" option to get added to their contact list (events, volunteer opportunities, member meetings, etc.). Please refer to the contact us form in our home page to receive all other WYA updates.