“To build character among the young and to pursue educational, patriotic, social, and athletic recreation.”  Those are the goals of the statewide SPJST Youth Program. SPJST’s youth program is a cooperative effort that reflects the great potential of SPJST – young and old – working together to achieve common goals and enjoying life together. On an annual basis, youth clubs from across the state sponsor a wide range of social activities, community service projects, and charity projects. It’s about having fun, but it’s also about contributing to the welfare of the people of Texas. The youth program is coordinated by the State Youth Director who works closely with District Youth Counselors (DYCs) who are elected by each district. In addition, the program relies on the support of youth leaders and numerous parents who volunteer their time to support the program. The educational aspect of the SPJST Youth Program is an integral part of local youth club activities. State and local programs address a range of areas, including human relations, nature, parliamentary procedure, juvenile decency, arts and crafts, fine arts, music, dramatics, and ethnic tradition. Youth club members range from kindergarten to high school senior. The patriotic program consists of ceremonial rituals and an annual essay contest. The objective is to teach the operation of a free democratic society and majority rule. The social program includes parties, dances, picnics, pageants, hay rides, and family group activities.

SPJST invites its youth to participate in its annual summer camping program at Camp Kubena in Fayette County. The campground covers over 180 acres and features climate-controlled cabins, a swimming pool, ponds, high and low ropes courses, archery, BB gun range, axe throwing, campfire area, and more! To qualify for a discounted camp fee, campers must attend a majority of youth club meetings (June through May) in the months preceding camp. Non-members can also attend camp for a higher fee, and if any available slots remain. Youth camp funds come from an annual allocation made by the SPJST Executive Committee. Much of the chaperoning and programming is done by parents and SPJST trained leaders. Adult leaders receive training at an annual workshop held in the spring. Visit spjst.org/camp for more details.

SPJST offers its youth a program which encourages participation in various individual and group contests. The SPJST State Youth Showcase is held on a statewide basis on the last weekend in July. The competition covers talent, speech, and creative arts categories. The crowning moment of SPJST’s royalty competition is the coronation Mr. and Miss SPJST who are selected on the basis of a speech during which they are scored on speech content and delivery, stage presence, and an onstage interview.

More than 200 young people and adults from across the state attended in 2023.