Florida Young Advocates is a nonpartisan, city-wide initiative to train high school students to be effective advocates for themselves and their communities. It provides a hands-on approach to equip students with the skills necessary to make positive changes at home while also preparing them for a future of successful advocacy. This organization was developed by a group of community-minded profess
ionals who saw a need for more civic education and involvement. FYA knows that students have the willingness and capacity to do good in their communities. They simply need the skills and a proper platform with which to do so. FYA is a two-part program that gives students the opportunity to see the impact they can have on their communities now while also preparing them to be successful lifelong advocates. The first part of the program will focus on civics education and basic advocacy training. Here, students will learn about various issues currently affecting their neighborhoods here in Jacksonville. They will hear from local experts and learn how they can effectively use their passions to better their home city. Students will choose an issue they wish to bring to the attention of city officials and have an opportunity to do so. Once students have a taste of advocacy, they will move into the part two of the program: developing the skills needed to properly advocate beyond their high school years. Here, students will hone their skills in critical thinking, public speaking, debate, persuasive writing, collaboration, and leadership. Students will do so through a unique legal perspective and see how we got to where we are by examining court cases and public record. Students will also receive college preparation support as well as mentorship from area advocacy professionals. The second part of our FYA program is based on successful programs in New York City and the State of Ohio called Legal Outreach and Law and Leadership Institute, respectfully.
