We prioritize leadership development with our interns and create growth opportunities throughout the year. From learning about the legislative process to talking with the local news to developing a marketing plan, our students are at the forefront of the work. Through the program, students gain many skills, from public speaking to group problem-solving, policy analysis, communication skills, and more. Additionally, we offer this program as an unpaid internship, so our students can list this work on professional resumes and college applications.

Every year, WSYV interns survey students anonymously to understand what issues are most important to high school-aged youth. The interns then synthesize those issues into an annual West Slope Youth Issues Report to shape their organizing and policy objectives. The West Slope Youth Voice Western Youth Issues shares the results of the survey, highlights pieces of legislation that affect youth, and helps students identify their legislators and the votes they took that directly impact their issues.