Teenagers can learn first hand how state government works through the Simi Valley Family YMCA's Youth and Government Program, open to all Simi Valley students in grades 10 through 12.

The program is currently accepting participants for the fall program.

An information night for parents and teens will be at 7 p.m. Thurs., Sept. 14 at the Simi Valley Family YMCA, 3200 Cochran St.

In the program, students can learn about state government through hands-on activities during weekly meetings.

At the culmination of the program in February, the teens travel to Sacramento for a fiveday trip where they elect youth senators, representatives, judges and other government "officials" as they take over the State Capitol and Supreme Court. They participate in a mock government, presenting and debating bills, and hearing and ruling on court cases.

"There are over 85 Youth and Government delegations are throughout California," said Stacey Fedyski, camp and teen program director at the Simi Y. "Kids get to meet other teens from around the state at several conferences a year. It's an experience they'll never forget."

For more information, call Fedyski at (805) 583-5338.