YPA History & Recognition

Brought together by a common interest in politics and volunteerism, a small group of high school students began meeting in 1998 to discuss bridging the gap between community involvement and political awareness. Much to their chagrin, none of the existing regional or national civic clubs effectively stressed community volunteerism within the context of public service. After participating in several high school clubs they realized what worked, what did not, and most importantly, what was lacking.

On July 4, 1998 the Young Politicians of America symbolically launched its national website ( www.ypa.org ) and began attracting members from around the world. Some young Americans confess a “complete obsession with all things political” (Mary Kate, 16, Arizona), while others want “to hear about the issues concerning the youth across the country!” (Austin, 18, Virginia). Many members echo Adam, 20, California, when he writes, “I plan to become involved in politics and want to have as many options open to me as possible.”

Not long after its founding, the YPA earned media attention and raised its profile—the organization was featured in Family PC Magazine, the Wall Street Journal, and on CNN. Additionally, MTV, Newsweek, ABC News, XM Radio, and Yale University have contacted the YPA for joint-projects and reporting on youth political activism.

With a vibrant online community and swelling ranks, the YPA secured 501(c)(3) nonprofit standing and shifted its focus to its Service-Chapter program in high schools and colleges. By 2002 the YPA’s program was established and prepared for implementation, and the organization began aggressively seeking funding and support.

In 2003 and 2004 the YPA organization established a formal Board of Directors and began expanding into major metropolitan areas with Advisory Boards. In 2006, the organization launched its networking group. YPA has over 2,500 members. The National YPA organization is based in Walnut Creek, California and coordinates the nationwide Service-Chapter program.