Youth as Partners in Civic Leadership (YPCL) 2025 brought together 100 youth and 34 adults from 22 Wisconsin counties and 17 organizations for a three-day, two-night camp at Upham Woods in Wisconsin Dells in November. Hosted by UW–Madison Division of Extension’s Positive Youth Development Institute, YPCL’s mission is to “advance youth voice by strengthening youth–adult partnerships in civic leadership across communities, schools and organizations.”
“We are incredibly proud of YPCL, in its 21st year, as an example of Youth-Adult Partnership, where young people and adults share knowledge and build their communities’ shared future,” said Joe Maldonado, Bilingual Youth and Family State Specialist at UW-Madison Division of Extension’s Positive Youth Development Institute. “YPCL alums have gone on to local and state elected office, community organizing and youth development, making lasting change across the country.”
YPCL 2025 created a collaborative environment where youth and adults taught, learned and led together.
Participants represented a wide range of organizations, including human services agencies, advocacy groups, agricultural organizations and Latine Student Unions. Some participating organizations include the American Lung Association, End Domestic Abuse, the Wisconsin Farmers Union, the Burlington High School Juntos 4-H Club and the Milwaukee Youth Council. Youth-led workshops and discussions addressed topics such as healthy relationships, substance abuse prevention, foster care navigation, cultural dance and financial literacy. More than 85% of surveyed participants reported increased readiness to partner across ages, contribute meaningfully, build diverse relationships and take action on community issues.
The conference intentionally connected rural and urban youth, fostering understanding across racial, ethnic and geographic differences. Outdoor activities — like archery, hiking, campfires and a talent show — helped participants build trust and relationships through shared experiences.
The weekend concluded with teams presenting action plans for youth voice projects in their communities, using digital media and presentations to address issues like local agriculture, consent education and community organizing. Notably, YPCL 2025 saw 100% growth in youth participation and expanded accessibility for English Language Learners through translation, interpretation and a bilingual keynote.
Watch this video recap of the Youth as Partners in Civic Leadership Conference (YPCL) 2025, hosted by UW-Madison Division of Extension Positive Youth Development.